Methods of using GPR119 to identify compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to methods of using GPR119 receptor to identify compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual. Agonists of GPR119 receptor are useful as therapeutic agents for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and for increasing bone mass in an individual. Agonists of GPR119 receptor promote bone formation in an individual.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/989,037, filed Jan. 22, 2008, (now U.S. Pat. No. 7,833,730), which is a national phase filing under 35 U.S.C. §371 of International Application No. PCT/US2007/008902, filed on Apr. 10, 2007, which claims priority to U.S. Application Ser. No. 60/791,550, filed on Apr. 11, 2006. The disclosures of the prior applications are considered part of, and are incorporated by reference in, the disclosure of this application.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to methods of using GPR119 receptor to identify compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual. Agonists of GPR119 receptor are useful as therapeutic agents for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and for increasing bone mass in an individual. Agonists of GPR119 receptor promote bone formation in an individual.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The following discussion is intended to facilitate the understanding of the invention, but is not intended nor admitted to be prior art to the invention.

A. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disabling disease characterized by the loss of bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of skeletal structure leading to compromised bone strength, which predisposes a patient to increased risk of fragility fractures. Osteoporosis affects more than 75 million people in Europe, Japan and the United States, and causes more than 2.3 million fractures in Europe and the United States alone. In the United States, osteoporosis affects at least 25% of all post-menopausal white women, and the proportion rises to 70% in women older than 80 years. One in three women older than 50 years will have an osteoporotic fracture that causes a considerable social and financial burden on society. The disease is not limited to women; older men also can be affected. By 2050, the worldwide incidence of hip fracture in men is projected to increase by 310% and 240% in women. The combined lifetime risk for hip, forearm, and vertebral fractures presenting clinically is around 40%, equivalent to the risk for cardiovascular disease. Osteoporotic fractures therefore cause substantial mortality, morbidity, and economic cost. With an ageing population, the number of osteoporotic fractures and their costs will at least double in the next 50 years unless effective preventive strategies are developed. (See, e.g., Atik et al., Clin Orthop Relat Res (2006) 443:19-24; Raisz, J Clin Invest (2005) 115:3318-3325; and World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis.)

B. Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide (GIP)

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP, also known as gastric inhibitory polypeptide) is a peptide incretin hormone of 42 amino acids that is released from duodenal endocrine K cells after meal ingestion. The amount of GIP released is largely dependent on the amount of glucose consumed. GIP has been shown to stimulate glucose-dependent insulin secretion in pancreatic beta cells. GIP mediates its actions through a specific G protein-coupled receptor, namely GIPR.

As GIP contains an alanine at position 2, it is an excellent substrate for dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-IV), an enzyme regulating the degradation of GIP. Full-length GIP(1-42) is rapidly converted to bioinactive GIP(3-42) within minutes of secretion from the gut K cell. Inhibition of DPP-IV has been shown to augment GIP bioactivity. (See, e.g., Drucker, Cell Metab (2006) 3:153-165; McIntosh et al., Regul Pept (2005) 128:159-165; Deacon, Regul Pept (2005) 128:117-124; and Ahren et al., Endocrinology (2005) 146:2055-2059.) Analysis of full length bioactive GIP, for example in blood, can be carried out using N-terminal-specific assays (see, e.g., Deacon et al, J Clin Endocrinol Metab (2000) 85:3575-3581).

Recently, GIP has been shown to promote bone formation. GIP has been shown to activate osteoblastic receptors, resulting in increases in collagen type I synthesis and alkaline phosphatase activity, both associated with bone formation. GIP has been shown to inhibit osteoclast activity and differentiation in vitro. GIP administration has been shown to prevent the bone loss due to ovariectomy. GIP receptor (GIPR) knockout mice evidence a decreased bone size, lower bone mass, altered bone microarchitecture and biochemical properties, and altered parameters for bone turnover, especially in bone formation. (See, e.g., Zhong et al, Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab (2007) 292:E543-E548; Bollag et al., Endocrinology (2000) 141:1228-1235; Bollag et al., Mol Cell Endocrinol (2001) 177:35-41; Xie et al., Bone (2005) 37:759-769; and Tsukiyama et al., Mol Endocrinol (2006) 20:1644-1651.)

The usefulness of GIP for maintaining or increasing bone density or formation has been acknowledged by the United State Trademark and Patent Office by issuance of U.S. Pat. No. 6,410,508 for the treatment of reduced bone mineralization by administration of GIP peptide. However, current GIP peptide agonists suffer from a lack of oral bioavailability, negatively impacting patient compliance. An attractive alternative approach is to develop an orally active composition for increasing an endogenous level of GIP activity.

C. GPR119

GPR119 is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPR119; e.g., human GPR119, GenBank® Accession No. AAP72125 and alleles thereof; e.g., mouse GPR119, GenBank® Accession No. AY288423 and alleles thereof). GPR119 activation as by an agonist leads to elevation of the level of intracellular cAMP, consistent with GPR119 being coupled to Gs. In the patent literature, GPR119 has been referred to as RUP3 (e.g., WO 00/31258); GPR119 has also been referred to as Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Receptor (GDIR).

D. G Protein-Coupled Receptors

Although a number of receptor classes exist in humans, by far the most abundant and therapeutically relevant is represented by the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) class. It is estimated that there are some 30,000-40,000 genes within the human genome, and of these, approximately 2% are estimated to code for GPCRs.

GPCRs represent an important area for the development of pharmaceutical products. Drugs active at GPCRs have therapeutic benefit across a broad spectrum of human diseases as diverse as pain, cognitive dysfunction, hypertension, peptic ulcers, rhinitis, and asthma. Of the approximately 500 clinically marketed drugs, greater than 30% are modulators of GPCR function. These drugs exert their activity at approximately 30 well-characterized GPCRs. (See, e.g., Wise et al, Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol (2004) 44:43-66.)

GPCRs share a common structural motif, having seven sequences of between 22 to 24 hydrophobic amino acids that form seven alpha helices, each of which spans the membrane (each span is identified by number, i.e., transmembrane-1 (TM-1), transmembrane-2 (TM-2), etc.). The transmembrane helices are joined by strands of amino acids between transmembrane-2 and transmembrane-3, transmembrane-4 and transmembrane-5, and transmembrane-6 and transmembrane-7 on the exterior, or “extracellular” side, of the cell membrane (these are referred to as “extracellular” regions 1, 2 and 3 (EC-1, EC-2 and EC-3), respectively). The transmembrane helices are also joined by strands of amino acids between transmembrane-1 and transmembrane-2, transmembrane-3 and transmembrane-4, and transmembrane-5 and transmembrane-6 on the interior, or “intracellular” side, of the cell membrane (these are referred to as “intracellular” regions 1, 2 and 3 (IC-1, IC-2 and IC-3), respectively). The “carboxy” (“C”) terminus of the receptor lies in the intracellular space within the cell, and the “amino” (“N”) terminus of the receptor lies in the extracellular space outside of the cell.

Generally, when a ligand binds with the receptor (often referred to as “activation” of the receptor), there is a change in the conformation of the receptor that facilitates coupling between the intracellular region and an intracellular “G-protein.” It has been reported that GPCRs are “promiscuous” with respect to G proteins, i.e., that a GPCR can interact with more than one G protein. See, Kenakin, Life Sciences (1988) 43:1095-1101. Although other G proteins exist, currently, Gq, Gs, Gi, Gz and Go are G proteins that have been identified. Ligand-activated GPCR coupling with the G-protein initiates a signaling cascade process (referred to as “signal transduction”). Under normal conditions, signal transduction ultimately results in cellular activation or cellular inhibition. Although not wishing to be bound to theory, it is thought that the IC-3 loop as well as the carboxy terminus of the receptor interact with the G protein.

There are also promiscuous G proteins, which appear to couple several classes of GPCRs to the phospholipase C pathway, such as G15 or G16 (Offermanns & Simon, J Biol Chem (1995) 270:15175-80), or chimeric G proteins designed to couple a large number of different GPCRs to the same pathway, e.g. phospholipase C (Milligan & Rees, Trends in Pharmaceutical Sciences (1999) 20:118-24).

Under physiological conditions, GPCRs exist in the cell membrane in equilibrium between two different conformations: an “inactive” state and an “active” state. A receptor in an inactive state is unable to link to the intracellular signaling transduction pathway to initiate signal transduction leading to a biological response. Changing the receptor conformation to the active state allows linkage to the transduction pathway (via the G-protein) and produces a biological response.

A receptor may be stabilized in an active state by a ligand or a compound such as a drug. Recent discoveries, including but not exclusively limited to modifications to the amino acid sequence of the receptor, provide means other than ligands or drugs to promote and stabilize the receptor in the active state conformation. These means effectively stabilize the receptor in an active state by simulating the effect of a ligand binding to the receptor. Stabilization by such ligand-independent means is termed “constitutive receptor activation.”

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the unexpected discovery by Applicant that administration of a GPR119 agonist to an individual, such as by oral administration, can act at GPR119 receptor to increase a GIP level in the individual. The present invention features methods relating to GPR119 for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual. A GPR119 agonist is useful for promoting (e.g., increasing) bone formation in an individual. In certain embodiments, the individual is a human.

Nucleotide sequence encoding human GPR119 polypeptide is given in SEQ ID NO: 1. The amino acid sequence of said encoded human GPR119 polypeptide is given in SEQ ID NO: 2.

In a first aspect, the invention features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) contacting a test compound with a host cell or with membrane         of a host cell comprising a G protein-coupled receptor, wherein         the G protein-coupled receptor comprises an amino acid sequence         selected from the group consisting of:         -   (i) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (ii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2, with the proviso             that the G protein-coupled receptor does not comprise the             amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iv) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by             polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using             specific primers SEQ ID NO:3 and SEQ ID NO:4;         -   (v) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of             high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO:1;         -   (vi) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (vii) the amino acid sequence of (vi) when selected from the             group consisting of:             -   (a′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID                 NO: 2; and             -   (b′) an amino acid sequence of a 0 protein-coupled                 receptor comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids                 of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active             version of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2;             and         -   (ix) a biologically active fragment of any one of (i) to             (viii); and     -   (b) determining the ability of the test compound to stimulate         functionality of the G protein-coupled receptor;         wherein the ability of the test compound to stimulate         functionality of the G protein-coupled receptor is indicative of         the test compound being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful         for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone         mass, or a compound useful for increasing bone mass in an         individual.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an allele of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a mammalian ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is recombinant.

In certain embodiments, the method is a method for identifying GIP secretagogues.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises identifying an agonist of the receptor.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises identifying a partial agonist of the receptor.

In certain embodiments, the method is a method for identifying compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass

In certain embodiments, the method is a method for identifying compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) and (b) of this first aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (c) optionally synthesizing a compound which stimulates the         functionality of the receptor in step (b);     -   (d) contacting a compound which stimulates functionality of the         receptor in step (b) in vitro with a vertebrate enteroendocrine         cell or with a cell capable of secreting GIP; and     -   (e) determining whether the compound stimulates GIP secretion         from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the cell         capable of secreting GIP;         wherein the ability of the test compound to stimulate GIP         secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the         cell capable of secreting GIP is indicative of the test compound         being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or         preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a         compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell is a mammalian enteroendocrine cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is a K cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from the small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises duodenum or jejunum tissue (see, e.g., Sondhi et al, Pharmacogenomics J (2006) 6:131-140). In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is an enteroendocrine cell line. In certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a recombinant cell engineered to be capable of secreting GIP.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) and (b) of this first aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (c) optionally synthesizing a compound which stimulates         functionality of the receptor in step (b);     -   (d) administering a compound which stimulates functionality of         the receptor in step (b) to a vertebrate; and     -   (e) determining whether the compound increases a GIP level in         the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a GIP level         in the vertebrate is indicative of the test compound being a GIP         secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or preventing a         condition characterized by low bone mass, or a compound useful         for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of total GIP. In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of bioactive GIP.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) and (b) of this first aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (c) optionally synthesizing a compound which stimulates         functionality of the receptor in step (b);     -   (d) administering a compound which stimulates functionality of         the receptor in step (b) to a vertebrate; and     -   (e) determining whether the compound increases a level of bone         mass in the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a level of         bone mass in the vertebrate is indicative of the test compound         being a compound useful for treating or preventing a condition         characterized by low bone mass or a compound useful for         increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, said determining comprises measuring a level of bone mass in the vertebrate. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass comprises measuring the level of bone mass using dual energy X-ray absorbtiometry (DXA). In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass using DXA comprises measuring a T-score using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a T-score using DXA comprises measuring a T-score at the hip using DXA. It is expressly contemplated that said measuring a level of bone mass may comprise measuring a level of bone mass using a technique other than DXA, such as single X-ray absorbtiometry (SXA) (see, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis). In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate or mammal is an ovariectomized rat or an ovariectomized mouse.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) and (b) of this first aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (c) optionally synthesizing a compound which stimulates         functionality of the receptor in step (b);     -   (d) optionally providing a compound which stimulates         functionality of the receptor in step (b);     -   (e) contacting a compound which stimulates functionality of the         receptor in step (b) in vitro with a vertebrate enteroendocrine         cell or with a cell capable of secreting GIP; and     -   (f) determining whether the compound stimulates GIP secretion         from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the cell         capable of secreting GIP;         wherein the ability of the test compound to stimulate GIP         secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the         cell capable of secreting GIP is indicative of the test compound         being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or         preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a         compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual. In         certain embodiments, the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell is a         mammalian enteroendocrine cell. In certain embodiments, the         enteroendocrine cell is a K cell. In certain embodiments, the         enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from the small         intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell         comprises tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small         intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell         comprises duodenum or jejunum tissue (see, e.g., Sondhi et al,         Pharmacogenomics J (2006) 6:131-140). In certain embodiments,         the enteroendocrine cell is an enteroendocrine cell line. In         certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a         recombinant cell engineered to be capable of secreting GIP.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) and (b) of this first aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (c) optionally synthesizing a compound which stimulates         functionality of the receptor in step (b);     -   (d) optionally providing a compound which stimulates         functionality of the receptor in step (b);     -   (e) administering a compound which stimulates functionality of         the receptor in step (b) to a vertebrate; and     -   (f) determining whether the compound increases a GIP level in         the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a GIP level         in the vertebrate is indicative of the test compound being a GIP         secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or preventing a         condition characterized by low bone mass, or a compound useful         for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of total GIP. In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of bioactive GIP.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) and (b) of this first aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (c) optionally synthesizing a compound which stimulates         functionality of the receptor in step (b);     -   (d) optionally providing a compound which stimulates         functionality of the receptor in step (b);     -   (e) administering a compound which stimulates functionality of         the receptor in step (b) to a vertebrate; and     -   (f) determining whether the compound increases a level of bone         mass in the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a level of         bone mass in the vertebrate is indicative of the test compound         being a compound useful for treating or preventing a condition         characterized by low bone mass or a compound useful for         increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, said determining comprises measuring a level of bone mass in the individual. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass comprises measuring the level of bone mass using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass using DXA comprises measuring a T-score using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a T-score using DXA comprises measuring a T-score at the hip using DXA. It is expressly contemplated that said measuring a level of bone mass may comprise measuring a level of bone mass using a technique other than DXA, such as single X-ray absorbtiometry (SXA) (see, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis).

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate or mammal is an ovariectomized rat or an ovariectomized mouse.

In certain embodiments, the identified GIP secretagogue, or the identified compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the identified compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual is an agonist of the receptor. In some embodiments, the agonist is a partial agonist.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is coupled to a G protein. In certain embodiments, activation of the G protein-coupled receptor increases a level of intracellular cAMP. In certain embodiments, the G protein is Gs.

In certain embodiments, the human DNA sample is human genomic DNA.

In some embodiments, the polymerase chain reaction is reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RT-PCR techniques are well known to the skilled artisan. In certain embodiments, the human DNA sample is human cDNA. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a human tissue that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the human tissue that expresses GPR119 is pancreas or pancreatic islet. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a human cell type that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the cDNA is from a pancreatic beta cell. In some embodiments, the cDNA is from a pancreatic cell line.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, stringent hybridization conditions comprise hybridization at 42° C. in a solution comprising 50% formamide, 5×SSC (1×SSC=150 mM NaCl, 15 mM trisodium citrate), 50 mM sodium phosphate (pH 7.6), 5×Denhardt's solution, 10% dextran sulfate, and 20 μg/ml denatured, sheared salmon sperm DNA, followed by washing at 65° C. in a solution comprising 0.1×SSC. Hybridization techniques are well known to the skilled artisan.

In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a GPCR. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is part of a fusion protein comprising a G protein. Techniques for making a GPCR:G fusion construct are well known to the skilled artisan (see, e.g., International Application WO 02/42461).

In certain embodiments, the host cell comprises an expression vector, said expression vector comprising a polynucleotide encoding the G protein-coupled receptor. In some embodiments, the expression vector is pCMV. This vector was deposited with the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) on Oct. 13, 1998 (10801 University Blvd., Manassas, Va. 20110-2209 USA) under the provisions of the Budapest Treaty for the International Recognition of the Deposit of Microorganisms for the Purpose of Patent Procedure. The DNA was tested by the ATCC and determined to be viable. The ATCC has assigned the following deposit number to pCMV: ATCC #203351. Other suitable expression vectors will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and a wide variety of expression vectors are commercially available (e.g., from Clontech, Palo Alto, Calif.; Stratagene, La Jolla, Calif.; and Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.).

In some embodiments, the host cell is a vertebrate cell. In some embodiments, the host cell is a mammalian cell. In some embodiments, the mammalian host cell is selected from the group consisting of a 293 cell, a 293T cell, a CHO cell, an MCB3901 cell, and a COS-7 cell. In some embodiments, the host cell is a yeast cell. In some embodiments, the host cell is a melanophore cell. Other suitable host cells will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and a wide variety of cell lines are available from the American Type Culture Collection, 10801 University Boulevard, Manassas, Va. 20110-2209.

In certain embodiments, said determining is consistent with the G protein-coupled receptor being a Gs-coupled receptor.

In some embodiments, said determining is consistent with the G protein-coupled receptor being coupled through a promiscuous G protein, such as Gα15 or Gα16, to the phopholipase C pathway. Promiscuous G proteins are well known to the skilled artisan (see, e.g., Offermanns et al., J Biol Chem (1995) 270:15175-15180). In some embodiments, said determining is consistent with the G protein-coupled receptor being coupled through a chimeric G protein, e.g. to the phospholipase C pathway. Chimeric G proteins are well known to the skilled artisan (see, e.g., Milligan et al., Trends in Pharmaceutical Sciences (1999) 20:118-124; and WO 02/42461).

In some embodiments, said determining is through the measurement of a level of a second messenger.

In some embodiments, said determining is through the measurement of a level of a second messenger selected from the group consisting of cyclic AMP (cAMP), cyclic GMP (cGMP), inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP₃), diacylglycerol (DAG), MAP kinase activity, MAPK/ERK kinase kinase-1 (MEKK1) activity, and Ca²⁺. In some preferred embodiments, the second messenger is cAMP. In certain embodiments, a level of intracellular cAMP is increased.

In certain embodiments, said determining is carried out using membrane comprising the G protein-coupled receptor.

In certain embodiments, said determining is through the use of a melanophore assay. In certain embodiments, a level of pigment dispersion is increased.

In some embodiments, said determining is through a reporter assay. In some embodiments, said reporter assay is CRE-Luc reporter assay.

In some embodiments, said determining is through the measurement of an activity mediated by increasing a level of intracellular cAMP.

In some embodiments, said determining is through CRE-Luc reporter assay. In certain embodiments, a level of luciferase activity is increased.

In some embodiments, said determining is through the measurement of GTPγS binding to membrane comprising the G protein-coupled receptor. In certain embodiments, said GTPγS is labeled with [³⁵S]. In certain embodiments, said GTPγS binding to membrane comprising the GPCR is increased.

In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide or a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the test compound is a polypeptide, with the proviso that the polypeptide is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the test compound is a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the test compound is an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of optionally determining the structure of the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of optionally providing the name or structure of the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of optionally producing or synthesizing the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of formulating the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual into a pharmaceutical composition.

In a second aspect, the invention features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) contacting a compound in vitro with a vertebrate         enteroendocrine cell or with a cell capable of secreting GIP,         said compound having been identified by a method according to         the first aspect; and     -   (b) determining whether the compound stimulates GIP secretion         from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the cell         capable of secreting GIP;         wherein the ability of the test compound to stimulate GIP         secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the         cell capable of secreting GIP is further indicative of the test         compound being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for         treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone         mass, or a compound useful for increasing bone mass in an         individual.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell is a mammalian enteroendocrine cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is a K cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from the small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises duodenum or jejunum tissue (see, e.g., Sondhi et al, Pharmacogenomics J (2006) 6:131-140). In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is an enteroendocrine cell line. In certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a recombinant cell engineered to be capable of secreting GIP.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) administering a compound to a vertebrate, said compound         having been identified by a method according to the first         aspect; and     -   (b) determining whether the compound increases a GIP level in         the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a GIP level         in the vertebrate is further indicative of the test compound         being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or         preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a         compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of total GIP. in certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of bioactive GIP.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) administering a compound to a vertebrate, said compound         having been identified by a method according to the first         aspect; and     -   (b) determining whether the compound increases a level of bone         mass in the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a level of         bone mass in the vertebrate is further indicative of the test         compound being a compound useful for treating or preventing a         condition characterized by low bone mass or a compound useful         for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of total GIP. In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of bioactive GIP.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

In certain embodiments, said determining comprises measuring a level of bone mass in the vertebrate. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass comprises measuring the level of bone mass using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass using DXA comprises measuring a T-score using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a T-score using DXA comprises measuring a T-score at the hip using DXA. It is expressly contemplated that said measuring a level of bone mass may comprise measuring a level of bone mass using a technique other than DXA, such as single X-ray absorbtiometry (SXA) (see, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis). In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate or mammal is an ovariectomized rat or an ovariectomized mouse.

In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide or a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the test compound is a polypeptide, with the proviso that the polypeptide is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the test compound is a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the test compound is an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof.

In a third aspect, the invention features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) contacting a GPR119 agonist in vitro with a vertebrate         enteroendocrine cell or with a cell capable of secreting GIP;         and     -   (b) determining whether the GPR119 agonist stimulates GIP         secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the         cell capable of secreting GIP;         wherein the ability of the GPR119 agonist to stimulate GIP         secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the         cell capable of secreting GIP is indicative of the GPR119         agonist being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating         or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a         compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell is a mammalian enteroendocrine cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is a K cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from the small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises duodenum or jejunum tissue (see, e.g., Sondhi et al, Pharmacogenomics J (2006) 6:131-140). In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is an enteroendocrine cell line. In certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a recombinant cell engineered to be capable of secreting GIP.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) administering a GPR119 agonist to a vertebrate; and     -   (b) determining whether the GPR119 agonist increases a GIP level         in the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the GPR119 agonist to increase a GIP         level in the vertebrate is indicative of the GPR119 agonist         being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or         preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a         compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of total GIP. In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of bioactive GIP.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) administering a GPR119 agonist to a vertebrate; and     -   (b) determining whether the GPR119 agonist increases a level of         bone mass in the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the GPR119 agonist to increase a level of         bone mass in the vertebrate is indicative of the GPR119 agonist         being a compound useful for treating or preventing a condition         characterized by low bone mass or a compound useful for         increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of total GIP. In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma concentration of bioactive GIP.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

In certain embodiments, said determining comprises measuring a level of bone mass in the vertebrate. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass comprises measuring the level of bone mass using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass using DXA comprises measuring a T-score using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a T-score using DXA comprises measuring a T-score at the hip using DXA. It is expressly contemplated that said measuring a level of bone mass may comprise measuring a level of bone mass using a technique other than DXA, such as single X-ray absorbtiometry (SXA) (see, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis). In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate or mammal is an ovariectomized rat or an ovariectomized mouse.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is an agonist of an endogenous GPR119.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is an agonist of human GPR119.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is a GPR119 partial agonist.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is a selective GPR119 agonist.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is a small molecule. In some embodiments, the small molecule is not a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the small molecule is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the small molecule is not a lipid. In some embodiments, the small molecule is not a polypeptide or a lipid.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is orally available.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist has an EC₅₀ value of less than about 10 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 75 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 15 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, less than about 4 nM, less than about 3 nM, less than about 2 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist has an EC₅₀ value of less than about 10 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 75 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 15 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, less than about 4 nM, less than about 3 nM, less than about 2 nM, or less than about 1 nM at human GPR119 having SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist has an EC₅₀ value of less than about 10 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 75 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 15 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, less than about 4 nM, less than about 3 nM, less than about 2 nM, or less than about 1 nM at human GPR119 having SEQ ID NO: 2 in adenylyl cyclase assay (exemplary adenylyl cyclase assay is provided in Example 7 and in Example 8, infra). In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist has an EC₅₀ value of less than about 10 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 75 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 15 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, less than about 4 nM, less than about 3 nM, less than about 2 nM, or less than about 1 nM at human GPR119 having SEQ ID NO: 2 in melanophore assay (exemplary melanophore assay is provided in Example 9, infra).

Exemplary GPR119 agonists are disclosed, e.g., in International Application No. PCT/US2004/001267 (published as WO 04/065380); International Application No. PCT/US2004/005555 (published as WO 04/076413); International Application No. PCT/US 2004/022327 (published as WO 05/007647); International Application No. PCT/US2004/022417 (published as WO 05/007658); International Application No. PCT/US2005/019318 (published as WO 2005/121121); International Application No. PCT/GB2004/050046 (published as WO 2005/061489); International Application No. PCT/US06/00567 (published as WO 2006/083491); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050264 (published as WO 2006/067531); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050265 (published as WO 2006/067532); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050266 (published as WO 2006/070208); International Application No. PCT/JP02/09350 (published as WO 03/026661); International Application No. PCT/JP2005/018412 (published as WO 06/040966); International Application No. PCT/JP2005/019000 (published as WO 2006/043490); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050176 (published as WO 2007/003960); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050177 (published as WO 2007/003961); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050178 (published as WO 2007/003962); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050182 (published as WO 2007/003964); and International Application No. PCT/JP02/09350 (published as WO 03/026661).

In certain embodiments, the method comprises providing the GPR119 agonist.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is identifiable by a method according to the first aspect.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises carrying out a method according to the first aspect to identify the GPR119 agonist.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises having identified the GPR119 agonist by a method according to the first aspect.

In a fourth aspect, the invention features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) contacting a 0 protein-coupled receptor with an optionally         labeled known ligand to the receptor in the presence or absence         of a test compound, wherein the G protein-coupled receptor         comprises an amino acid sequence selected from the group         consisting of:         -   (i) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (ii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2, with the proviso             that the receptor does not comprise the amino acid sequence             of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iv) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by             polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using             specific primers SEQ ID NO:3 and SEQ ID NO:4;         -   (v) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of             high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO:1;         -   (vi) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (vii) the amino acid sequence of (vi) when selected from the             group consisting of:             -   (a′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID                 NO: 2; and             -   (b′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids                 of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active             version of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2;             and         -   (ix) a biologically active fragment of any one of (i) to             (viii); and     -   (b) detecting the complex between said known ligand and said         receptor; and     -   (c) determining whether less of said complex is formed in the         presence of the test compound than in the absence of the test         compound;         wherein said determination is indicative of the test compound         being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or         preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a         compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an allele of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a mammalian ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is recombinant.

In certain embodiments, the method is a method for identifying GIP secretagogues.

In certain embodiments, the method is a method for identifying compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass

In certain embodiments, the method is a method for identifying compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the known ligand is a ligand or agonist of an endogenous vertebrate, mammalian or human GPR119 receptor. In certain embodiments, the known ligand is a known agonist of an endogenous vertebrate, mammalian or human GPR119 receptor. In certain embodiments, the known ligand is a ligand or agonist of an endogenous human GPR119 receptor. In certain embodiments, the known ligand is identical to a compound disclosed in, e.g., in International Application No. PCT/US2004/001267 (published as WO 04/065380); International Application No. PCT/US2004/005555 (published as WO 04/076413); International Application No. PCT/US2004/022327 (published as WO 05/007647); International Application No. PCT/US2004/022417 (published as WO 05/007658); International Application No. PCT/US2005/019318 (published as WO 2005/121121); International Application No. PCT/GB2004/050046 (published as WO 2005/061489); International Application No. PCT/US06/00567 (published as WO 2006/083491); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050264 (published as WO 2006/067531); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050265 (published as WO 2006/067532); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050266 (published as WO 2006/070208); International Application No. PCT/JP02/09350 (published as WO 03/026661); International Application No. PCT/JP2005/018412 (published as WO 06/040966); International Application No. PCT/JP2005/019000 (published as WO 2006/043490); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050176 (published as WO 2007/003960); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050177 (published as WO 2007/003961); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050178 (published as WO 2007/003962); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050182 (published as WO 2007/003964); or International Application No. PCT/JP02/09350 (published as WO 03/026661). In certain embodiments, the known ligand is (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the known ligand is an endogenous ligand of an endogenous vertebrate, mammalian, or human GPR119 receptor.

In certain embodiments, the optionally labeled known ligand is a labeled known ligand. In certain embodiments, the labeled known ligand is a radiolabeled known ligand. Techniques for radiolabeling a compound, such as for labeling a known ligand of a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention, are well known to the skilled artisan. See, e.g., International Application WO 04/065380. Also see, e.g., Example 11, infra.

Techniques for detecting the complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and a compound known to be a ligand of the G protein-coupled receptor are well known to the skilled artisan. See, e.g., International Application WO 04/065380. Also see, e.g., Example 12, infra.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) to (c) of this fourth aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (d) optionally synthesizing a compound in the presence of which         less of said complex is formed in step (c);     -   (e) contacting a compound in the presence of which less of said         complex is formed in step (c) in vitro with a vertebrate         enteroendocrine cell or with a cell capable of secreting GIP;         and     -   (f) determining whether the compound stimulates GIP secretion         from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the cell         capable of secreting GIP;         wherein the ability of the test compound to stimulate GIP         secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the         cell capable of secreting GIP is indicative of the test compound         being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or         preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a         compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual. In         certain embodiments, the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell is a         mammalian enteroendocrine cell. In certain embodiments, the         enteroendocrine cell is a K cell. In certain embodiments, the         enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from the small         intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell         comprises tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small         intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell         comprises duodenum or jejunum tissue (see, e.g., Sondhi et al,         Pharmacogenomics J (2006) 6:131-140). In certain embodiments,         the enteroendocrine cell is an enteroendocrine cell line. In         certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a         recombinant cell engineered to be capable of secreting GIP.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) to (c) of this fourth aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (d) optionally synthesizing a compound in the presence of which         less of said complex is formed in step (c);     -   (e) administering a compound in the presence of which less of         said complex is formed in step (c) to a vertebrate; and     -   (f) determining whether the compound increases a GIP level in         the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a GIP level         in the vertebrate is indicative of the test compound being a GIP         secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or preventing a         condition characterized by low bone mass, or a compound useful         for increasing bone mass in an individual. In certain         embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments,         the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain         embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain         embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) to (c) of this fourth aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (d) optionally synthesizing a compound in the presence of which         less of said complex is formed in step (c);     -   (e) administering a compound in the presence of which less of         said complex is formed in step (c) to a vertebrate; and     -   (f) determining whether the compound increases a level of bone         mass in the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a level of         bone mass in the vertebrate is indicative of the test compound         being a compound useful for treating or preventing a condition         characterized by low bone mass or a compound useful for         increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, said determining comprises measuring a level of bone mass in the individual. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass comprises measuring the level of bone mass using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass using DXA comprises measuring a T-score using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a T-score using DXA comprises measuring a T-score at the hip using DXA. It is expressly contemplated that said measuring a level of bone mass may comprise measuring a level of bone mass using a technique other than DXA, such as single X-ray absorbtiometry (SXA) (see, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis). In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate or mammal is an ovariectomized rat or an ovariectomized mouse.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) to (c) of this fourth aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (d) optionally synthesizing a compound in the presence of which         less of said complex is formed according to step (c);     -   (e) optionally providing a compound in the presence of which         less of said complex is formed according to step (c);     -   (f) contacting a compound in the presence of which less of said         complex is formed according to step (c) in vitro with a         vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or with a cell capable of         secreting GIP; and     -   (g) determining whether the compound stimulates GIP secretion         from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the cell         capable of secreting GIP;         wherein the ability of the test compound to stimulate GIP         secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the         cell capable of secreting GIP is indicative of the test compound         being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or         preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a         compound useful for increasing bone mass' in an individual. In         certain embodiments, the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell is a         mammalian enteroendocrine cell. In certain embodiments, the         enteroendocrine cell is a K cell. In certain embodiments, the         enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from the small         intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell         comprises tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small         intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell         comprises duodenum or jejunum tissue (see, e.g., Sondhi et al,         Pharmacogenomics J (2006) 6:131-140). In certain embodiments,         the enteroendocrine cell is an enteroendocrine cell line. In         certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a         recombinant cell engineered to be capable of secreting GIP.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) to (c) of this fourth aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (d) optionally synthesizing a compound in the presence of which         less of said complex is formed according to step (c);     -   (e) optionally providing a compound in the presence of which         less of said complex is formed according to step (c);     -   (f) administering a compound in the presence of which less of         said complex is formed in step (c) to a vertebrate; and     -   (g) determining whether the compound increases a GIP level in         the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a GIP level         in the vertebrate is indicative of the test compound being a GIP         secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or preventing a         condition characterized by low bone mass, or a compound useful         for increasing bone mass in an individual. In certain         embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments,         the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain         embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain         embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising steps (a) to (c) of this fourth aspect, and further comprising:

-   -   (d) optionally synthesizing a compound in the presence of which         less of said complex is formed according to step (c);     -   (e) optionally providing a compound in the presence of which         less of said complex is formed according to step (c);     -   (f) administering a compound in the presence of which less of         said complex is formed in step (c) to a vertebrate; and     -   (g) determining whether the compound increases a level of bone         mass in the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a level of         bone mass in the vertebrate is indicative of the test compound         being a compound useful for treating or preventing a condition         characterized by low bone mass or a compound useful for         increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, said determining comprises measuring a level of bone mass in the individual. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass comprises measuring the level of bone mass using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass using DXA comprises measuring a T-score using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a T-score using DXA comprises measuring a T-score at the hip using DXA. It is expressly contemplated that said measuring a level of bone mass may comprise measuring a level of bone mass using a technique other than DXA, such as single X-ray absorbtiometry (SXA) (see, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis). In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate or mammal is an ovariectomized rat or an ovariectomized mouse.

In certain embodiments, the human DNA sample is human genomic DNA.

In some embodiments, the polymerase chain reaction is reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RT-PCR techniques are well known to the skilled artisan. In certain embodiments, the human DNA sample is human cDNA. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a human tissue that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the human tissue that expresses GPR119 is pancreas or pancreatic islet. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a human cell type that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the cDNA is from a pancreatic beta cell. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a pancreatic cell line.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, stringent hybridization conditions (e.g., conditions of high stringency) comprise hybridization at 42° C. in a solution comprising 50% formamide, 5×SSC (1×SSC=150 mM NaCl, 15 mM trisodium citrate), 50 mM sodium phosphate (pH 7.6), 5×Denhardt's solution, 10% dextran sulfate, and 20 μg/ml denatured, sheared salmon sperm DNA, followed by washing at 65° C. in a solution comprising 0.1×SSC. Hybridization techniques are well known to the skilled artisan.

In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a GPCR. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is part of a fusion protein comprising a G protein. Techniques for making a GPCR:G fusion construct are well known to the skilled artisan (see, e.g., International Application WO 02/42461).

In certain embodiments, said determining is carried out using a host cell comprising the G protein-coupled receptor. In certain embodiments, the host cell comprises an expression vector, said expression vector comprising a polynucleotide encoding the GPCR. In some embodiments, the expression vector is pCMV. This vector was deposited with the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) on Oct. 13, 1998 (10801 University Blvd., Manassas, Va. 20110-2209 USA) under the provisions of the Budapest Treaty for the International Recognition of the Deposit of Microorganisms for the Purpose of Patent Procedure. The DNA was tested by the ATCC and determined to be viable. The ATCC has assigned the following deposit number to pCMV: ATCC #203351. Other suitable expression vectors will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and a wide variety of expression vectors are commercially available (e.g., from Clontech, Palo Alto, Calif.; Stratagene, La Jolla, Calif.; and Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.).

In some embodiments, the host cell is a vertebrate cell. In some embodiments, the host cell is a mammalian cell. In some embodiments, the mammalian host cell is selected from the group consisting of a 293 cell, a 293T cell, a CHO cell, a MCB3901 cell, and a COS-7 cell. In some embodiments, the host cell is a yeast cell. In some embodiments, the host cell is a melanophore cell. Other suitable host cells will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and a wide variety of cell lines are available from the American Type Culture Collection, 10801 University Boulevard, Manassas, Va. 20110-2209.

In certain embodiments, said determining is carried out using membrane comprising the G protein-coupled receptor.

In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide or a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the test compound is a polypeptide, with the proviso that the polypeptide is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the test compound is a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the test compound is an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of optionally determining the structure of the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of optionally providing the name or structure of the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of optionally producing or synthesizing the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of formulating the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual into a pharmaceutical composition.

In a fifth aspect, the invention features a method of screening test compounds to identify a GIP secretagogue, a compound for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a compound for increasing bone mass in an individual, which is characterized by using a G protein-coupled receptor comprising an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of

-   -   (a) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (b) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (c) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2, wherein the GPCR does not         comprise the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (d) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor         encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase         chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using specific         primers SEQ ID NO: 3 and SEQ ID NO: 4;     -   (e) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor         encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high         stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1;     -   (f) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (g) the amino acid sequence of (f) when selected from the group         consisting of         -   (i) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2; and         -   (ii) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             comprising at least 20 continguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO:             2;     -   (h) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active version         of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2; and     -   (i) a biologically active fragment of any one of any one of (a)         to (h).

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an allele of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a mammalian ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is recombinant.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises identifying an agonist of the receptor.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises identifying a partial agonist of the receptor.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of formulating the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual into a pharmaceutical composition.

In a sixth aspect, the invention features a method comprising, having identified a GIP secretagogue, a compound for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a compound for increasing bone mass in an individual according to the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect or the fifth aspect, formulating said GIP secretagogue, said compound for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or said compound for increasing bone mass in an individual into a pharmaceutical composition.

In a seventh aspect, the invention features use of a G protein-coupled receptor to screen test compounds as GIP secretagogues, compounds for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds for increasing bone mass in an individual, wherein the G protein-coupled receptor comprises an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   (a) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (b) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (c) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2, wherein the GPCR does not         comprise the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (d) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor         encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase         chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using specific         primers SEQ ID NO: 3 and SEQ ID NO: 4;     -   (e) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor         encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high         stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1;     -   (f) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (g) the amino acid sequence of (f) when selected from the group         consisting of:         -   (i) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2; and         -   (ii) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO:             2;     -   (h) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active version         of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2; and     -   (i) a biologically active fragment of any one of any one of (a)         to (h).

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an allele of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a mammalian ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the receptor is recombinant.

In certain embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule.

In certain embodiments, the test compound is a GPR119 agonist.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is an agonist of an endogenous GPR119.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is an agonist of human GPR119.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is a GPR119 partial agonist.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is a selective GPR119 agonist.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is a small molecule.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is orally available.

In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist has an EC₅₀ value of less than about 10 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 75 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 15 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, less than about 4 nM, less than about 3 nM, less than about 2 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist has an EC₅₀ value of less than about 10 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 75 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 15 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, less than about 4 nM, less than about 3 nM, less than about 2 nM, or less than about 1 nM at human GPR119 having SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist has an EC₅₀ value of less than about 10 μN, less than about 1 μM less than about 100 nM, less than about 75 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 15 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, less than about 4 nM, less than about 3 nM, less than about 2 nM, or less than about 1 nM at human GPR119 having SEQ ID NO: 2 in adenylyl cyclase assay (exemplary adenylyl cyclase assay is provided in Example 7 and in Example 8, infra). In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist has an EC₅₀ value of less than about 10 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 75 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 15 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, less than about 4 nM, less than about 3 nM, less than about 2 nM, or less than about 1 nM at human GPR119 having SEQ ID NO: 2 in melanophore assay (exemplary melanophore assay is provided in Example 9, infra).

Exemplary GPR119 agonists are disclosed, e.g., in International Application No. PCT/US2004/001267 (published as WO 04/065380); International Application No. PCT/US2004/005555 (published as WO 04/076413); International Application No. PCT/US2004/022327 (published as WO 05/007647); International Application No. PCT/US2004/022417 (published as WO 05/007658); International Application No. PCT/US2005/019318 (published as WO 2005/121121); International Application No. PCT/GB2004/050046 (published as WO 2005/061489); International Application No. PCT/US06/00567 (published as WO 2006/083491); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050264 (published as WO 2006/067531); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050265 (published as WO 2006/067532); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050266 (published as WO 2006/070208); International Application No. PCT/JP02/09350 (published as WO 03/026661); International Application No. PCT/JP2005/018412 (published as WO 06/040966); International Application No. PCT/JP2005/019000 (published as WO 2006/043490); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050176 (published as WO 2007/003960); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050177 (published as WO 2007/003961); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050178 (published as WO 2007/003962); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050182 (published as WO 2007/003964); and International Application No. PCT/JP02/09350 (published as WO 03/026661).

In an eighth aspect, the invention features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) contacting a compound which stimulates functionality of a G         protein-coupled receptor, wherein said G protein-coupled         receptor comprises an amino acid sequence selected from the         group consisting of:         -   (i) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (ii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2, with the proviso             that the G protein-coupled receptor does not comprise the             amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iv) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by             polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using             specific primers SEQ ID NO:3 and SEQ ID NO:4;         -   (v) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of             high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1;         -   (vi) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (vii) the amino acid sequence of (vi) when selected from the             group consisting of:             -   (a′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID                 NO: 2; and             -   (b′) an amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids                 of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active             version of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2;             and         -   (ix) a biologically active fragment of any one of (i) to             (viii); in vitro with a vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or             with a cell capable of secreting GIP, said compound having             been determined or identified by a method according to the             first aspect; and     -   (b) determining whether the compound stimulates GIP secretion         from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the cell         capable of secreting GIP;         wherein the ability of the test compound to stimulate GIP         secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the         cell capable of secreting GIP is further indicative of the test         compound being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for         treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone         mass, or a compound useful for increasing bone mass in an         individual.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an allele of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a mammalian ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is recombinant.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell is a mammalian enteroendocrine cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is a K cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from the small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises duodenum or jejunum tissue (see, e.g., Sondhi et al, Pharmacogenomics J (2006) 6:131-140). In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is an enteroendocrine cell line. In certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a pancreatic cell. See, e.g., Xie et al, Bone 2007 as relates to pancreatic expression of GIP. In certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a recombinant cell engineered to be capable of secreting GIP.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

(a) administering to a vertebrate a compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor, wherein said G protein-coupled receptor comprises an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   (i) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;     -   (ii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;     -   (iii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2, with the proviso that         the G protein-coupled receptor does not comprise the amino acid         sequence of SEQ ID NO:2;     -   (iv) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor         encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase         chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using specific         primers SEQ ID NO:3 and SEQ ID NO:4;     -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor         encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high         stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1;     -   (ix) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (x) the amino acid sequence of (vi) when selected from the group         consisting of:         -   (a′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2; and         -   (b′) an amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO:             2;     -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active         version of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2; and     -   (ix) a biologically active fragment of any one of (i) to (viii);         said compound having been determined or identified by a method         according to the first aspect; and

(b) determining whether the compound increases a GIP level in the vertebrate;

wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a GIP level in the vertebrate is further indicative of the test compound being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an allele of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a mammalian ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is recombinant.

In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma or serum concentration of total GIP. In certain embodiments, the GIP level is blood or plasma or serum concentration of bioactive GIP.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) administering to a vertebrate a compound which stimulates         functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor, wherein said G         protein-coupled receptor comprises an amino acid sequence         selected from the group consisting of:         -   (i) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (ii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2, with the proviso             that the G protein-coupled receptor does not comprise the             amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iv) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by             polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using             specific primers SEQ ID NO:3 and SEQ ID NO:4;         -   (xi) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of             high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1;         -   (xii) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (xiii) the amino acid sequence of (vi) when selected from             the group consisting of:             -   (a′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID                 NO: 2; and             -   (b′) an amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids                 of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active             version of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2;             and         -   (ix) a biologically active fragment of any one of (i) to             (viii); said compound having been determined or identified             by a method according to the first aspect; and     -   (b) determining whether the compound increases a level of bone         mass in the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a level of         bone mass in the vertebrate is further indicative of the test         compound being a compound useful for treating or preventing a         condition characterized by low bone mass or a compound useful         for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an allele of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a mammalian ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is recombinant.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate or mammal is an ovariectomized rat or an ovariectomized mouse.

In certain embodiments, said determining comprises measuring a level of bone mass in the vertebrate. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass comprises measuring the level of bone mass using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass using DXA comprises measuring a T-score using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a T-score using DXA comprises measuring a T-score at the hip using DXA. It is expressly contemplated that said measuring a level of bone mass may comprise measuring a level of bone mass using a technique other than DXA, such as single X-ray absorbtiometry (SXA) (see, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis).

In certain embodiments, the human DNA sample is human genomic DNA.

In some embodiments, the polymerase chain reaction is reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RT-PCR techniques are well known to the skilled artisan. In certain embodiments, the human DNA sample is human cDNA. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a human tissue that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the human tissue that expresses GPR119 is pancreas or pancreatic islet. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a human cell type that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the cDNA is from a pancreatic beta cell. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a pancreatic cell line.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, stringent hybridization conditions (e.g., conditions of high stringency) comprise hybridization at 42° C. in a solution comprising 50% formamide, 5×SSC (1×SSC=150 mM NaCl, 15 mM trisodium citrate), 50 mM sodium phosphate (pH 7.6), 5×Denhardt's solution, 10% dextran sulfate, and 20 μg/ml denatured, sheared salmon sperm DNA, followed by washing at 65° C. in a solution comprising 0.1×SSC. Hybridization techniques are well known to the skilled artisan.

In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a GPCR. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is part of a fusion protein comprising a G protein. Techniques for making a GPCR:G fusion construct are well known to the skilled artisan (see, e.g., International Application WO 02/42461).

In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is a small molecule. In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a lipid. In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide or a lipid. In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is a polypeptide, with the proviso that the polypeptide is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is a lipid. In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the compound which stimulates functionality of a G protein-coupled receptor is an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of optionally determining the structure of the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of optionally providing the name or structure of the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of optionally producing or synthesizing the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of formulating the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual as a pharmaceutical.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of formulating the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual into a pharmaceutical composition.

In a ninth aspect, the invention features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) contacting a compound in the presence of which less of a         complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and an optionally         labelled known ligand to the receptor is formed than in the         absence of the compound, wherein the G protein-coupled receptor         comprises an amino acid sequence selected from the group         consisting of:         -   (i) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (ii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2, with the proviso             that the receptor does not comprise the amino acid sequence             of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iv) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by             polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using             specific primers SEQ ID NO:3 and SEQ ID NO:4;         -   (v) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of             high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO:1;         -   (vi) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (vii) the amino acid sequence of (vi) when selected from the             group consisting of:             -   (a′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID                 NO: 2; and             -   (b′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids                 of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active             version of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2;             and         -   (ix) a biologically active fragment of any one of (i) to             (viii); in vitro with a vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or             with a cell capable of secreting GIP, said compound having             been determined or identified by a method according to the             fourth aspect; and     -   (b) determining whether the compound stimulates GIP secretion         from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the cell         capable of secreting GIP;         wherein the ability of the test compound to stimulate GIP         secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the         cell capable of secreting GIP is further indicative of the test         compound being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for         treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone         mass, or a compound useful for increasing bone mass in an         individual.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the receptor comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an allele of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a mammalian ortholog of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is recombinant.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell is a mammalian enteroendocrine cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is a K cell. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from the small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small intestine. In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell comprises duodenum or jejunum tissue (see, e.g., Sondhi et al, Pharmacogenomics J (2006) 6:131-140). In certain embodiments, the enteroendocrine cell is an enteroendocrine cell line. In certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a pancreatic cell. See, e.g., Xie et al, Bone 2007 as relates to pancreatic expression of GIP. In certain embodiments, the cell capable of secreting GIP is a recombinant cell engineered to be capable of secreting GIP.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) administering a compound to a vertebrate, wherein in the         presence of said compound less of a complex between a G         protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand         to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound,         wherein the G protein-coupled receptor comprises an amino acid         sequence selected from the group consisting of:         -   (i) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (ii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2, with the proviso             that the receptor does not comprise the amino acid sequence             of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iv) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by             polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using             specific primers SEQ ID NO:3 and SEQ ID NO:4;         -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled             receptor encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under             conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID             NO:1;         -   (ix) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (x) the amino acid sequence of (vi) when selected from the             group consisting of:             -   (a′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID                 NO: 2; and             -   (b′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids                 of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active             version of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2;             and         -   (ix) a biologically active fragment of any one of (i) to             (viii);         -   said compound having been determined or identified by a             method according to the fourth aspect; and

(b) determining whether the compound increases a GIP level in the vertebrate;

wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a GIP level in the vertebrate is further indicative of the test compound being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or a compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

The invention additionally features a method for identifying GIP secretagogues, compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass, or compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual, comprising the steps of

-   -   (a) administering a compound to a vertebrate, wherein in the         presence of said compound less of a complex between a G         protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand         to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound,         wherein the G protein-coupled receptor comprises an amino acid         sequence selected from the group consisting of         -   (i) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (ii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iii) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO:2, with the proviso             that the receptor does not comprise the amino acid sequence             of SEQ ID NO:2;         -   (iv) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by             polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using             specific primers SEQ ID NO:3 and SEQ ID NO:4;         -   (xi) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of             high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO:1;         -   (xii) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (xiii) the amino acid sequence of (vi) when selected from             the group consisting of:             -   (a′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID                 NO: 2; and             -   (b′) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled                 receptor comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids                 of SEQ ID NO: 2;         -   (viii) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active             version of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2;             and         -   (ix) a biologically active fragment of any one of (i) to             (viii); said compound having been determined or identified             by a method according to the fourth aspect; and     -   (b) determining whether the compound increases a level of bone         mass in the vertebrate;         wherein the ability of the test compound to increase a level of         bone mass in the vertebrate is further indicative of the test         compound being a GIP secretagogue, a compound useful for         treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone         mass, or a compound useful for increasing bone mass in an         individual.

In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate or mammal is an ovariectomized rat or an ovariectomized mouse.

In certain embodiments, said determining comprises measuring a level of bone mass in the vertebrate. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass comprises measuring the level of bone mass using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a level of bone mass using DXA comprises measuring a T-score using DXA. In certain embodiments, said measuring a T-score using DXA comprises measuring a T-score at the hip using DXA. It is expressly contemplated that said measuring a level of bone mass may comprise measuring a level of bone mass using a technique other than DXA, such as single X-ray absorbtiometry (SXA) (see, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis). In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the vertebrate is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the mammal is a non-human mammal.

In certain embodiments, the human DNA sample is human genomic DNA.

In some embodiments, the polymerase chain reaction is reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RT-PCR techniques are well known to the skilled artisan. In certain embodiments, the human DNA sample is human cDNA. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a human tissue that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the human tissue that expresses GPR119 is pancreas or pancreatic islet. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a human cell type that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the cDNA is from a pancreatic beta cell. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a pancreatic cell line.

In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, stringent hybridization conditions (e.g., conditions of high stringency) comprise hybridization at 42° C. in a solution comprising 50% formamide, 5×SSC (1×SSC=150 mM NaCl, 15 mM trisodium citrate), 50 mM sodium phosphate (pH 7.6), 5×Denhardt's solution, 10% dextran sulfate, and 20 μg/ml denatured, sheared salmon sperm DNA, followed by washing at 65° C. in a solution comprising 0.1×SSC. Hybridization techniques are well known to the skilled artisan.

In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a GPCR. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor is part of a fusion protein comprising a G protein. Techniques for making a GPCR:G fusion construct are well known to the skilled artisan (see, e.g., International Application WO 02/42461).

In some embodiments, the compound in the presence of which less of a complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound is a small molecule. In some embodiments, the compound in the presence of which less of a complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the compound in the presence of which less of a complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the compound in the presence of which less of a complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is a small molecule, with the proviso that the small molecule is not a polypeptide or a lipid. In some embodiments, the test compound is a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the compound in the presence of which less of a complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound is a polypeptide, with the proviso that the polypeptide is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the compound in the presence of which less of a complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound is a lipid. In some embodiments, the compound in the presence of which less of a complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound is not an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the compound in the presence of which less of a complex between a G protein-coupled receptor and an optionally labelled known ligand to the receptor is formed than in the absence of the compound is an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof.

In certain embodiments, the method is a method for identifying GIP secretagogues.

In certain embodiments, the method is a method for identifying compounds useful for preventing or treating a condition characterized by low bone mass.

In certain embodiments, the method is a method for identifying compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the known ligand is a ligand or agonist of an endogenous vertebrate, mammalian or human GPR119 receptor. In certain embodiments, the known ligand is a known agonist of an endogenous vertebrate, mammalian or human GPR119 receptor. In certain embodiments, the known ligand is a ligand or agonist of an endogenous human GPR119 receptor. In certain embodiments, the known ligand is identical to a compound disclosed in, e.g., in International Application No. PCT/US2004/001267 (published as WO 04/065380); International Application No. PCT/US2004/005555 (published as WO 04/076413); International Application No. PCT/US2004/022327 (published as WO 05/007647); International Application No. PCT/US2004/022417 (published as WO 05/007658); International Application No. PCT/US2005/019318 (published as WO 2005/121121); International Application No. PCT/GB2004/050046 (published as WO 2005/061489); International Application No. PCT/US06/00567 (published as WO 2006/083491); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050264 (published as WO 2006/067531); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050265 (published as WO 2006/067532); International Application No. PCT/GB2005/050266 (published as WO 2006/070208); International Application No. PCT/JP02/09350 (published as WO 03/026661); International Application No. PCT/JP2005/018412 (published as WO 06/040966); International Application No. PCT/JP2005/019000 (published as WO 2006/043490); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050176 (published as WO 2007/003960); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050177 (published as WO 2007/003961); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050178 (published as WO 2007/003962); International Application No. PCT/GB2006/050182 (published as WO 2007/003964); or International Application No. PCT/JP02/09350 (published as WO 03/026661). In certain embodiments, the known ligand is (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the known ligand is an endogenous ligand of an endogenous vertebrate, mammalian, or human GPR119 receptor.

In certain embodiments, the optionally labeled known ligand is a labeled known ligand. In certain embodiments, the labeled known ligand is a radiolabeled known ligand. Techniques for radiolabeling a compound, such as for labeling a known ligand of a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention, are well known to the skilled artisan. See, e.g., International Application WO 04/065380. Also see, e.g., Example 11, infra.

Techniques for detecting the complex between a 0 protein-coupled receptor and a compound known to be a ligand of the G protein-coupled receptor are well known to the skilled artisan. See, e.g., International Application WO 04/065380. Also see, e.g., Example 12, infra.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of optionally determining the structure of the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of optionally providing the name or structure of the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of optionally producing or synthesizing the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of formulating the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual as a pharmaceutical.

In some embodiments, said method further comprises the step of formulating the GIP secretagogue, the compound useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, or the compound useful for increasing bone mass in an individual into a pharmaceutical composition.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is illustrated in connection with the figures appended hereto in which:

FIGS. 1A-C show a pharmacodynamic analysis of an effect of administration of GPR119 agonist on blood GIP level in wild-type mice. A. A time course analysis carried out using Compound 1 as the GPR119 agonist. B. A time course analysis carried out using Compound 3 as the GPR119 agonist. C. A dose titration analysis carried out using Compound 3 as the GPR119 agonist.

FIGS. 2A-B show an effect of administration of GPR119 agonist on blood GIP level in GPR119-deficient (knockout) mice compared to wild-type mice. A. The comparison was carried out using Compound 1 as the GPR119 agonist, B. The comparison was carried out using Compound 2 as the GPR119 agonist.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention features methods of using GPR119 receptor to identify compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual. Agonists of GPR119 receptor are useful as therapeutic agents for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and for increasing bone mass in an individual. The present invention is based, at least in part, on the surprising discovery by Applicant that administration of a GPR119 agonist to an individual, such as by oral administration, can act at GPR119 receptor to increase a GIP level in the individual.

The term “ligand”, as used herein, shall mean a molecule (e.g., test compound) that specifically binds to a polypeptide, such as GPR119. A ligand may be, for example, a polypeptide, a lipid, a small molecule, an antibody. Compound 1 is an exemplary ligand of GPR119 receptor polypeptide (see, Table A, which sets forth the chemical structure and chemical name of Compound 1). Compound 1 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/001267 (published as WO 2004/065380). (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine (see, Table A) is an exemplary ligand of GPR119 receptor polypeptide. Compound 2 is an exemplary ligand of GPR119 receptor polypeptide. Compound 2 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/022417 (published as WO 2005/007658). Compound 3 is an exemplary ligand of GPR119 receptor polypeptide. Compound 3 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/022327 (published as WO 2005/007647). An endogenous ligand is a ligand that is an endogenous, natural ligand for a native polypeptide, such as GPR119. A ligand may be an “antagonist”, “agonist”, “partial agonist”, or “inverse agonist”, or the like.

TABLE A

(2-Fluoro-4- methanesulfonyl- phenyl)-{6-[4-(3- isopropyl-[1,2,4] oxadiazol-5-yl)- piperidin-1-yl]-5- nitro-pyrimidin-4- yl}-amine

The term “agonist”, as used herein, shall mean an agent (e.g., ligand, test compound) that by virtue of binding to a GPCR activates the GPCR so as to elicit an intracellular response mediated by the GPCR.

The term “partial agonist”, as used herein, shall mean an agent (e.g., ligand, test compound) that by virtue of binding to a GPCR activates the GPCR so as to elicit an intracellular response mediated by the GPCR, albeit to a lesser exent or degree than does a full agonist.

The term “antagonist” shall mean an agent (e.g., ligand, test compound) that binds, and preferably binds competitively, to a GPCR at about the same site as an agonist or partial agonist but which does not activate an intracellular response initiated by the active form of the GPCR, and can thereby inhibit the intracellular response by agonist or partial agonist. An antagonist typically does not diminish the baseline intracellular response in the absence of an agonist or partial agonist.

The term “inverse agonist” shall mean an agent (e.g., ligand, test compound) which binds to a GPCR and which inhibits the baseline intracellular response initiated by the active form of the receptor below the normal base level activity which is observed in the absence of an agonist or partial agonist.

The term “GPR119 agonist,” as used herein, refers to a compound that binds to GPR119 receptor and acts as an agonist. Compound 1 is an exemplary GPR119 agonist (see, Table A, which sets forth the chemical structure and chemical name of Compound 1). Compound 1 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/001267 (published as WO 2004/065380). (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an exemplary GPR119 agonist. Compound 2 is an exemplary GPR119 agonist. Compound 2 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/022417 (published as WO 2005/007658). Compound 3 is an exemplary GPR119 agonist. Compound 3 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/022327 (published as WO 2005/007647).

The term “selective GPR119 agonist,” as used herein, refers to a GPR119 agonist having selectivity for GPR119 receptor over one or more related receptors, such as corticotrophin-releasing factor-1 (CRF-1) receptor. Compound 1 is an exemplary selective GPR119 agonist (see, Table A, which sets forth the chemical structure and chemical name of Compound 1). Compound 1 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/001267 (published as WO 2004/065380). (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an exemplary selective GPR119 agonist. Compound 2 is an exemplary selective GPR119 agonist. Compound 2 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/022417 (published as WO 2005/007658). Compound 3 is an exemplary selective GPR119 agonist. Compound 3 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/022327 (published as WO 2005/007647).

The term “GIP secretagogue” shall mean an agent (e.g., ligand, test compound) that promotes secretion of GIP in a cell, e.g. an enteroendocrine cell, or that increases a level of total GIP, e.g. a level of blood or plasma total GIP, on administration to an individual such as a vertebrate or a mammal. In certain embodiments, a GIP secretagogue is a compound suitable for increasing a level of total GIP in an individual, for example a level of blood or plasma total GIP.

The term “individual,” as used herein, refers to a vertebrate, including but not limited to fish (such as commercially farmed fish, pet fish, etc.), amphibians (such as frogs, toads, pet amphibians, etc.), reptiles (such as snakes, lizards, turtles, pet reptiles, etc.), birds (such as chickens, turkeys, pet birds, etc.) and mammals (such as mice, rats, hamsters, rabbits, pigs, dogs, cats, horses, cows, sheep, goats, non-human primates, non-human mammals, pet non-human mammals, humans, etc.). In certain embodiments, the individual is a fish. In certain embodiments, the individual is an amphibian. In certain embodiments, the individual is a reptile. In certain embodiments, the individual is a bird. In certain embodiments, the individual is a turkey. Over the past 25 yr, commercial selection pressure for turkeys with larger breast muscle mass has placed increasing demands on skeletal integrity. The increased breast muscle mass, however, has not been accompanied by compensatory changes in the skeleton, with the result that the turkey industry has experienced an increase in leg problems. Long bone fracture in young adult male turkeys has been reported. (See, e.g., Crespo et al, Poult Sci (2000) 79:602-608.) In certain embodiments, the individual is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the individual is a mouse, a rat, a hamster, a rabbit, a pig, a dog, a cat, a horse, a cow, a sheep, a goat, a non-human primate or a human (which may be included in embodiments of the invention individually or in any combination). In certain embodiments, the individual is a horse. Performance horses, which are horses involved in activities such as racing, pacing and other competitive events, are susceptible to bone fracture. In certain embodiments, the individual is a dog or a cat. In certain embodiments, the individual is a human companion animal (such as a dog, a cat, etc.), a farm animal (such as a cow, a sheep, a goat, a pig, a chicken, etc.), a sports animal (such as a horse, a dog, etc.), a beast of burden (such as a mule, a camel, etc.) or an exotic animal (such as an animal found in a zoo, etc.), which may be included in embodiments of the invention individually or in any combination. In certain embodiments, the individual is a non-human mammal. In certain embodiments, the individual is a non-human primate (such as a rhesus monkey, a chimpanzee, etc.). In certain embodiments, the individual is a human.

The term “in need of prevention or treatment” as used herein refers to a judgement made by a caregiver (e.g. physician, nurse, nurse practitioner in the case of humans; veterinarian in the case of non-human vertebrates, and in particular embodiment non-human mammals) that an individual requires or will benefit from treatment.

The term “therapeutically effective amount” or “therapeutically effective dose” as used herein refers to the amount of active compound or pharmaceutical agent that elicits the biological or medicinal response in a tissue, system, animal, individual or human that is being sought by a researcher, veterinarian, medical doctor or other clinician, which includes one or more of the following:

(1) Preventing the disease; for example, preventing a disease, condition or disorder in an individual that may be predisposed to the disease, condition or disorder but does not yet experience or display the pathology or symptomatology of the disease,

(2) Inhibiting the disease; for example, inhibiting a disease, condition or disorder in an individual that is experiencing or displaying the pathology or symptomatology of the disease, condition or disorder (i.e., arresting further development of the pathology and/or symptomatology), and (3) Ameliorating the disease; for example, ameliorating a disease, condition or disorder in an individual that is experiencing or displaying the pathology or symptomatology of the disease, condition or disorder (i.e., reversing the pathology and/or symptomatology).

The term “therapeutic efficacy” as used herein refers to elicitation of the biological or medicinal response in a tissue, system, animal, individual or human that is being sought by a researcher, veterinarian, medical doctor or other clinician, which includes one or more of the following:

(1) Preventing the disease; for example, preventing a disease, condition or disorder in an individual that may be predisposed to the disease, condition or disorder but does not yet experience or display the pathology or symptomatology of the disease,

(2) Inhibiting the disease; for example, inhibiting a disease, condition or disorder in an individual that is experiencing or displaying the pathology or symptomatology of the disease, condition or disorder (i.e., arresting further development of the pathology and/or symptomatology), and (3) Ameliorating the disease; for example, ameliorating a disease, condition or disorder in an individual that is experiencing or displaying the pathology or symptomatology of the disease, condition or disorder (i.e., reversing the pathology and/or symptomatology).

The term “amount that is effective to prevent” refers to that amount of drug that will prevent or reduce the risk of occurrence of the biological or medical event that is sought to be prevented. In many instances, the amount that is effective to prevent is the same as the therapeutically effective amount.

The term “composition” shall mean a material comprising at least one component.

The term “active ingredient” shall mean any component that provides pharmacological activity or other direct effect in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease.

The term “pharmaceutical composition” shall mean a composition comprising at least one active ingredient, whereby the composition is amenable to investigation and treatment in a mammal.

By “pharmaceutically acceptable” it is meant that the carrier, vehicle, diluent, excipients, and/or salt must be compatible with the other ingredients of the formulation, and not deleterious to the recipient thereof.

The term “dosage form” shall mean the physical form in which a drug is produced and dispensed, such as a tablet, capsule, or an injectable.

By “bone” is intended the dense, semi-rigid, porous, calcified connective tissue forming the major portion of the skeleton of most vertebrates, comprising a dense organic matrix and an inorganic, mineral component. Bone is any of numerous anatomically distinct structures making up the skeleton of a vertebrate.

The terms “bone mass” and “bone mineral density (BMD)” are used interchangeably herein. BMD in humans is usually measured by a standard radiographic technique, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Of the many techniques developed to assess BMD, DXA is the most highly developed technically and the most thoroughly validated biologically. DXA technology, with suitably adapted software, can also be used to reliably assess BMD in animal studies. DXA is used in the diagnosis of osteoporosis, prognosis (fracture prediction), monitoring the natural history of the disorder, and assessing response to treatment.

The term “low bone mass” as used herein refers to any decrease or reduction in bone mineral density (BMD) in an individual, and includes both osteoporosis and osteopenia as defined in proposals by the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO has defined normal as a value of BMD within one standard deviation of the young adult reference mean (T-score ≧−1). The WHO has defined osteopenia as a value of BMD more than 1 standard deviation below the young adult mean, but less than 2.5 standard deviations below this value (T-score <−1 and >−2.5). The WHO has characterized osteoporosis as a more severe form of osteopenia, and has defined it by value of BMD 2.5 standard deviations or more blow the young adult mean (T-score ≦−2.5). (See, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.) More commonly, osteopenia is defined as a T-score of less than −1 and greater than −2, and osteoporosis is defined as a T-score of less than or equal to −2. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the T-score is measured at the hip with DXA.

The term “osteoporosis” as used herein is defined by a value of BMD 2 standard deviations or more below the young adult reference mean (T-score ≦−2) or refers to a diagnosis made by a caregiver (e.g. physician, nurse, nurse practitioner in the case of humans; veterinarian in the case of non-human vertebrates).

Osteoporosis can be classified as either primary or secondary. (See, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis.) As used herein, the term “osteoporosis” encompasses primary osteoporosis and secondary osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is primary osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is secondary osteoporosis.

“Primary osteoporosis” as used herein is associated with menopause (natural, premature, or surgical), aging, or both. It shall be understood that in the present invention, primary osteoporosis associated with menopause (natural, premature, or surgical), primary osteoporosis associated with aging, and primary osteoporosis associated with menopause and aging can be included in embodiments individually or in any combination.

“Secondary osteoporosis” as used herein refers to osteoporosis which is associated not with menopause or aging but rather with medical conditions or with the use of medications or drugs. An increased risk of osteoporosis is associated with a host of medical conditions, including but not limited to endocrine and metabolic disorders, and malignant disease, and with the use of certain medications and drugs, examples of which are well known to those skilled in the art (see, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis; Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 10^(th) Edition; the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.) Secondary osteoporosis can also be associated with immobilization. A diagnosis of osteoporosis secondary to a medical condition, to use of a medication or drug, or to immobilization can be made by a caregiver (e.g. physician, nurse, nurse practitioner in the case of humans; veterinarian in the case of non-human vertebrates).

By “bone fracture” is intended a complete or incomplete break, rupture or crack of a bone. Diagnosis of fractures normally depends upon clinical examination and radiological findings. In the invention, bone fractures include, but are not limited to, traumatic fractures, long-term fractures, and pathological fractures.

“Traumatic fracture” as used herein shall refer to an immediate fracture which involves a supraliminal trauma with a degree of local violence that exceeds the natural elasticity of the bone. It can be accompanied by simultaneous injury to the soft tissues and very often the skin. A traumatic fracture can be closed (the adjacent soft tissue can be injured but the covering soft parts are largely preserved). A traumatic fracture can be open (the broken ends of the bone are freed by extensive soft tissue injury so that pathogens from outside can enter the wound directly).

“Long-term fracture” as used herein shall refer to a chronic fracture, fatigue fracture, stress fracture or spontaneous fracture type I.

“Pathological fracture” as used herein shall refer to a spontaneous fracture type II. A pathological fracture arises spontaneously, without adequate trauma to account for it. The bone may have been previously damaged, either by a systemic disease (e.g., osteoporosis, osteodystrophy, or Paget's osteitis deformans) or by a local bone lesion (e.g., metastasis, radioosteonecrosis, or bone tumor). See, Adler, Claus-Peter, BONE DISEASES, p. 114 (Springer-Verlag, Germany 2000).

Fractures also include, but are not limited no, oblique torsion fracture, transverse fracture, comminuted fracture, compression fracture, rib fractures, creeping fracture, and fractured femoral neck (Adler, Claus-Peter, BONE DISEASES, Springer-Verlag, Germany (2000)).

As used herein, the term “condition characterized by low bone mass” includes but is not limited to osteopenia, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, periodontal disease, alveolar bone loss, osteotomy bone loss, childhood idiopathic bone loss, curvature of the spine and loss of height. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is primary osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is secondary osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, secondary osteoporosis is associated with a medical condition. In certain embodiments, secondary osteoporosis is associated with the use of a medication or drug. In certain embodiments, secondary osteoporosis is associated with immobilization. Conditions characterized by low bone mass also include but are not limited to Paget's disease, bone loss due to metastatic cancer, and osteolytic lesions such as those caused by neoplastic disease, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. Conditions characterized by low bone mass also include but are not limited to long-term complications of osteoporosis such as curvature of the spine, loss of height and prosthetic surgery. It shall be understood that in the present invention, conditions characterized by low bone mass can be included in embodiments individually or in any combination. (See, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis; Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 10^(th) Edition, Larsen et al, Eds. (2002), W.B. Saunders Company; and Endocrinology and Metabolism, 4^(th) Edition, Felig et al, Eds. (2001), McGraw-Hill Book Company; the disclosure of each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.)

As used herein, “bone disease” refers to a disorder or condition relating to abnormality of the bone. Bone diseases that can be treated according to the invention, by increasing bone mass or bone growth, include but are not limited to osteopenia, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, periodontal disease, alveolar bone loss, osteotomy bone loss, childhood idiopathic bone loss, curvature of the spine, and loss of height. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is primary osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is secondary osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, secondary osteoporosis is associated with a medical conditions. In certain embodiments, secondary osteoporosis is associated with the use of a medication or drug. In certain embodiments, secondary osteoporosis is associated with immobilization. Bone diseases that can be treated according to the invention, by increasing bone mass or bone growth, also include but are not limited to Paget's disease and bone loss due to metastatic cancer. Destructive bone disorders that can be treated according to the invention, by increasing bone mass or growth, include but are not limited to osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and osteolytic lesions such as those caused by neoplastic disease, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. It shall be understood that in the present invention, bone diseases that can be treated according to the invention, by increasing bone mass or growth, can be included in embodiments individually or in any combination. (See, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis; Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 10^(th) Edition, Larsen et al, Eds. (2002), W.B. Saunders Company; and Endocrinology and Metabolism, 4^(th) Edition, Felig et al, Eds. (2001), McGraw-Hill Book Company; the disclosure of each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.)

The present invention also relates to the other conditions that derive benefit from treatment according to the invention, by increasing bone mass or bone growth, including but not limited to enhanced bone healing following facial reconstruction, maxillary reconstruction, mandibular reconstruction, periodontal disease or tooth extraction, enhanced long bone extension, enhanced prosthetic ingrowth and increased bone synostosis.

The term “endogenous” shall mean a material that an individual (for example, and not limitation, a human) naturally produces. By contrast, “non-endogenous” shall mean that which is not naturally produced by an individual (for example, and not limitation, a human).

The term “biologically active fragment” of a 0 protein-coupled receptor shall mean a fragment of the GPCR having structural and biochemical functions of a naturally occurring GPCR. In certain embodiments, the biologically active fragment couples to a G protein. In certain embodiments, the biologically active fragment binds to a known ligand of the GPCR.

The term “primer” is used herein to denote a specific nucleotide sequence which is complementary to a target nucleotide sequence and used to hybridize to the target nucleotide sequence. A primer servesas an initiation point for nucleotide polymerization catalyzed by DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase, or reverse transcriptase.

The term “expression vector” shall mean a DNA sequence that is required for the transcription of cloned DNA and translation of the transcribed mRNA in an appropriate host cell recombinant for the expression vector. An appropriately contructed expression vector should contain an origin of replication for autonomous replication in host cells, selectable markers, a limited number of useful restriction enzyme sites, a potential for high copy number, and active promoters. The cloned DNA to be transcribed is operably linked to a constitutively or conditionally active promoter within the expression vector.

The term “host cell” shall mean a cell capable of having a vector incorporated therein. In the present context, the vector will typically contain nucleic acid encoding a GPCR or GPCR fusion protein in operable connection with a suitable promoter sequence to permit expression of the GPCR or GPCR fusion protein to occur. In particular embodiment, the host cell is a eukaryotic host cell. In certain embodiments, the eukaryotic host cell is a mammalian host cell. In certain embodiments, the eukaryotic host cell is a yeast host cell. In certain embodiments, the eukaryotic host cell is a melanophore host cell.

The term “contact” or “contacting” shall mean bringing at least two moieties together.

The terms “modulate” or “modify” shall be taken to refer to an increase or decrease in the amount, quality, or effect of a particular activity, function or molecule. By way of illustration and not limitation, agonists, partial agonists, inverse agonists, and antagonists of a G protein-coupled receptor are modulators of the receptor.

The term “small molecule” shall be taken to mean a compound having a molecular weight of less than about 10,000 grams per mole, including a peptide, peptidomimetic, amino acid, amino acid analogue, polynucleotide, polynucleotide analogue, nucleotide, nucleotide analogue, organic compound or inorganic compound (i.e. including a heterorganic compound or organometallic compound), and salts, esters and other pharmaceutically acceptable forms thereof. In certain embodiments, small molecules are organic or inorganic compounds having a molecular weight of less than about 5,000 grams per mole. In certain embodiments, small molecules are organic or inorganic compounds having molecular weight of less than about 1,000 grams per mole. In certain embodiments, small molecules are organic or inorganic compounds having a molecular weight of less than about 800 grams per mole. In certain embodiments, small molecules are organic or inorganic compounds having a molecular weight of less than about 600 grams per mole. In certain embodiments, small molecules are organic or inorganic compounds having a molecular weight of less than about 500 grams per mole.

Amino acid abbreviations used herein are set out in Table B:

TABLE B ALANINE ALA A ARGININE ARG R ASPARAGINE ASN N ASPARTIC ACID ASP D CYSTEINE CYS C GLUTAMIC ACID GLU E GLUTAMINE GLN Q GLYCINE GLY G HISTIDINE HIS H ISOLEUCINE ILE I LEUCINE LEU L LYSINE LYS K METHIONINE MET M PHENYLALANINE PHE F PROLINE PRO P SERINE SER S THREONINE THR T TRYPTOPHAN TRP W TYROSINE TYR Y VALINE VAL V

The term “polypeptide” shall refer to a polymer of amino acids without regard to the length of the polymer. Thus, peptides, oligopeptides, and proteins are included within the definition of polypeptide. This term also does not specify or exclude post-expression modifications of polypeptides. For example, polypeptides that include the covalent attachment of glycosyl groups, acetyl groups, phosphate groups, lipid groups and the like are expressly encompassed by the term polypeptide.

The term “polynucleotide” shall refer to RNA, DNA, or RNA/DNA hybrid sequence of more than one nucleotide in either single chain or duplex form. The polynucleotides of the invention may be prepared by any known method, including synthetic, recombinant, ex vivo generation, or a combination thereof, as well as utilizing any purification methods known in the art.

The term “antibody” is intended herein to encompass monoclonal antibody and polyclonal antibody.

The term “second messenger” shall mean an intracellular response produced as a result of receptor activation. A second messenger can include, for example, inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP₃), diacylglycerol (DAG), cyclic AMP (cAMP), cyclic GMP (cGMP), MAP kinase activity, MAPK/ERK kinase kinase-1 (MEKK1) activity, and Ca²⁺. Second messenger response can be measured for a determination of receptor activation.

The term “receptor functionality” shall refer to the normal operation of a receptor to receive a stimulus and moderate an effect in the cell, including, but not limited to regulating gene transcription, regulating the influx or efflux of ions, effecting a catalytic reaction, and/or modulating activity through G-proteins, such as eliciting a second messenger response.

The term “stimulate” or “stimulating,” in relationship to the term “response” or “functionality of the receptor” shall mean that a response or a functionality of the receptor is increased in the presence of a compound as opposed to in the absence of the compound.

The term “inhibit” or “inhibiting,” in relationship to the term “response” or “functionality of the receptor” shall mean that a response a functionality of the receptor is decreased or prevented in the presence of a compound as opposed to in the absence of the compound.

The term “compound efficacy” shall mean a measurement of the ability of a compound to inhibit or stimulate receptor functionality, as opposed to receptor binding affinity.

The term “test compound,” used interchangeably herein with “candidate compound,” shall mean a molecule (for example, and not limitation, a chemical compound) which is amenable to a screening technique.

The term “constitutively active” in relationship to a G protein-coupled receptor shall mean that the G protein-coupled receptor exhibits agonist-independent activity.

The term “directly identifying” or “directly identified”, in relationship to the phrase “test compound,” shall mean the screening of a compound against a G protein-coupled receptor in the absence of a known ligand (e.g., a known agonist) to the G protein-coupled receptor.

Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the lower limit unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the invention. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges, and are also encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the invention.

A. Introduction

The order of the following sections is set forth for presentational efficiency and is not intended, nor should be construed, as a limitation on the disclosure or the claims to follow.

B. Receptor Expression

1. GPCR Polypeptides of Interest

A GPCR of the invention may comprise an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   (a) amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (b) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (c) amino acids 2-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2, wherein the GPCR does not         comprise the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (d) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor         encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase         chain reaction (PCR) on a human DNA sample using specific         primers SEQ ID NO: 3 and SEQ ID NO: 4;     -   (e) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor         encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high         stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1;     -   (f) a variant of SEQ ID NO: 2;     -   (g) the amino acid sequence of (f) when selected from the group         consisting of:         -   (i) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             having at least about 80% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2; and         -   (ii) the amino acid sequence of a G protein-coupled receptor             comprising at least 20 contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO:             2;     -   (h) the amino acid sequence of a constitutively active version         of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2; and     -   (i) a biologically active fragment of any one of any one of (a)         to (h).         In certain embodiments, a GPCR of the invention comprises the         amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is an endogenous G protein-coupled receptor. In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction and that is an endogenous G protein-coupled receptor is a mammalian G protein-coupled receptor. In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction and that is an endogenous G protein-coupled receptor is a mammalian GPR119 receptor. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by a polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction specifically binds Compound 1 (see Table A, which sets forth the chemical structure and chemical name of Compound 1). In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 50 μM, less than about 25 μM, less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said receptor in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 5 μM, less than about less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In certain embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said receptor in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor encoded by the polynucleotide that is amplifiable by polymerase chain reaction exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In some embodiments, the human DNA is genomic DNA.

In some embodiments, the polymerase chain reaction is reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RT-PCR techniques are well known to the skilled artisan. In some embodiments, the human DNA is human cDNA derived from a tissue or cell type that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the human tissue that expresses GPR119 is pancreas or pancreatic islet. In certain embodiments, the cDNA is from a human cell type that expresses GPR119. In some embodiments, the cDNA is from a pancreatic beta cell line.

In some embodiments, a GPCR of the invention is recombinant. In some embodiments, the recombinant GPCR is recombinant human GPR119.

In certain embodiments, a GPCR that may be used in the subject methods exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity.

In some embodiments, a GPCR of the invention is endogenous. In some embodiments, a GPCR of the invention is a mammalian GPR119. In some embodiments, a GPCR of the invention that is endogenous is a mammalian GPR119.

By way of illustration and not limitation, deletion of an N-terminal methionine residue is envisioned to provide a biologically active fragment that may be used in the subject invention. In certain embodiments, a biologically active fragment of the invention is a fragment optionally fused at its N-terminus to a peptide comprising an N-terminal methionine residue and an HA epitope tag (from hemagglutinin influenza virus) that specifically binds Compound 1. In certain embodiments, a biologically active fragment of the invention is a fragment optionally fused at its N-terminus to a peptide comprising an N-terminal methionine residue and an HA epitope tag (from hemagglutinin influenza virus) that specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, a biologically active fragment of the invention is a fragment optionally fused at its N-terminus to a peptide comprising an N-terminal methionine residue and an HA epitope tag that specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 50 μM, less than about 25 μM, less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, a biologically active fragment of the invention is a fragment optionally fused at its N-terminus to a peptide comprising an N-terminal methionine residue and an HA epitope tag that specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, a biologically active fragment of the invention is a fragment optionally fused at its N-terminus to a peptide comprising an N-terminal methionine residue and an HA epitope tag for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said fragment optionally fused at its N-terminus to said peptide in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In certain embodiments, a biologically active fragment of the invention is a fragment optionally fused at its N-terminus to a peptide comprising an N-terminal methionine residue and an HA epitope tag for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said fragment optionally fused at its N-terminus to said peptide in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In some embodiments, a biologically active fragment of the invention is a fragment optionally fused at its N-terminus to a peptide comprising an N-terminal methionine residue and an HA epitope tag that exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion. In certain embodiments, the fragment is fused at its N-terminus to a peptide consisting essentially of an N-terminal methionine residue and an HA epitope tag. Techniques for fusing a peptide comprising or consisting essentially of an N-terminal methionine residue and an HA epitope tag to the N-terminus of a polypeptide fragment are well known in the art and can be obtained commercially (e.g., Clontech, Mountain View, Calif.).

An allelic variant of human GPR119 of SEQ ID NO: 2 is envisioned to be within the scope of the invention. Human GPR119 is envisioned to be within the scope of the invention.

A variant which is a vertebrate ortholog of human GPR119 of SEQ ID NO: 2 is envisioned to be within the scope of the invention. A variant which is a mammalian ortholog of human GPR119 of SEQ ID NO: 2 is envisioned to be within the scope of the invention. By way of illustration and not limitation, mouse GPR119 (e.g., GenBank® Accession No. AY288423), rat GAR (GenBank® Accession No. AAN95195), hamster GPR119, dog GPR119, and non-human primate GPR119 are envisioned to be within the scope of the invention.

In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a GPCR.

A variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 having at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, or at least about 99% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2 is envisioned to be within the scope of the invention. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 having at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, or at least about 99% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2 is a GPCR. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an endogenous GPCR. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a non-endogenous GPCR. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 that is an endogenous GPCR is a mammalian GPCR. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds Compound 1. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 50 μM, less than about 25 μM, less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-(1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl)-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said receptor in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said receptor in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion. Percent identity can be determined conventionally using known computer programs.

In certain embodiments, a variant GPCR that may be used in the subject methods has an amino acid sequence having at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, of at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, or at least about 99% identity to SEQ ID NO: 2. By a variant GPCR having, for example, 95% “identity” to SEQ ID NO: 2 is meant that the amino acid sequence of the variant is identical to amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2 except that it may include up to five amino acid alterations per each 100 amino acids of SEQ ID NO: 2. Thus, to obtain for example an amino acid sequence having at least 95% identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, up to 5% (5 of 100) of the amino acid residues in the sequence may be inserted, deleted, or substituted with another amino acid compared with amino acids 1-335 of SEQ ID NO: 2. These alternations may occur at the amino or carboxy termini or anywhere between those terminal positions, interspersed either subjectly among residues in the sequence or in one or more contiguous groups within the sequence.

In certain embodiments, a variant G protein-coupled receptor that may be used in the subject methods is a G protein-coupled receptor having an amino acid sequence derived from SEQ ID NO: 2 by deletion, substitution, and/or addition of one or several amino acids. In certain embodiments, a variant G protein-coupled receptor that may be used in the subject methods is a G protein-coupled receptor having an amino acid sequence derived from SEQ ID NO: 2 by no more than 10 conservative amino acid substitutions and/or no more than 3 non-conservative amino acid substitutions in the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, arginine, lysine and histidine may conservatively substitute for each other; glutamic acid and aspartic acid may conservatively substitute for each other; glutamine and asparagine may conservatively substitute for each other; leucine, isoleucine and valine may conservatively substitute for each other; phenylalanine, tryptophan and tyrosine may conservatively substitute for each other; and glycine, alanine, serine, threonine and methionine may conservatively substitute for each other. The amino acid substitutions, amino acid deletions, and amino acid additions may be at any position (e.g., the C- or N-terminus, or at internal positions). In some embodiments, the variant is an endogenous G protein-coupled receptor. In some embodiments, the variant is an endogenous vertebrate G protein-coupled receptor. In some embodiments, the variant is an endogenous mammalian G protein-coupled receptor. In some embodiments, the variant is an endogenous human G protein-coupled receptor. In some embodiments, the variant is a non-endogenous G protein-coupled receptor. In some embodiments, the variant exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion. In certain embodiments, said G protein-coupled receptor having an amino acid sequence derived from SEQ ID NO: 2 is a G protein-coupled receptor for which Compound 1 is a ligand. In certain embodiments, said G protein-coupled receptor having an amino acid sequence derived from SEQ ID NO: 2 is a G protein-coupled receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is a ligand having an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 50 μM, less than about 25 μM, less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, said G protein-coupled receptor having an amino acid sequence derived from SEQ ID NO: 2 is a G protein-coupled receptor for which Compound 1 is an agonist. In certain embodiments, said G protein-coupled receptor having an amino acid sequence derived from SEQ ID NO: 2 is a G protein-coupled receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM.

A variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 that is a G protein-coupled receptor comprising at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 75, or at least 100 contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO: 2 is envisioned to be within the scope of the invention. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 comprising at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 75, or at least 100 contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a GPCR. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is an endogenous GPCR. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a non-endogenous GPCR. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 that is an endogenous GPCR is a mammalian GPCR. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds Compound 1. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 50 μM, less than about 25 μM, less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said receptor in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In certain embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said receptor in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In some embodiments, the variant of SEQ ID NO: 2 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion. In some embodiments, the G protein-coupled receptor comprising at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 75, or at least 100 contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO: 2 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In some embodiments, a variant GPCR that may be used in the subject methods is a GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1. In some embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an endogenous GPCR. In some embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is a non-endogenous GPCR. In some embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 and that is an endogenous GPCR is a mammalian endogenous GPCR. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is SEQ ID NO:2 or an allele thereof. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an allele of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an ortholog of SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 specifically binds Compound 1. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 50 μM, less than about 25 μM, less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 specifically binds (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine with an IC₅₀ value in receptor binding assay according to Example 12, infra, of less than about 10 μM, less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 500 nM, less than about 100 nM, or less than about 50 nM. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said receptor in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 5 μM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In certain embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 is a receptor for which (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine is an agonist having an EC₅₀ value at said receptor in whole cell adenylyl cyclase assay according to Example 8, infra, of less than about 100 nM, less than about 50 nM, less than about 25 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 5 nM, or less than about 1 nM. In some embodiments, the GPCR encoded by a polynucleotide hybridizing under conditions of high stringency to the complement of SEQ ID NO: 1 exhibits a detectable level of constitutive activity. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion. Hybridization techniques are well known to the skilled artisan. In some embodiments, stringent hybridization conditions (e.g., conditions of high stringency) include overnight incubation at 42° C. in a solution comprising: 50% formamide, 5×SSC (1×SSC=150 mM NaCl, 15 mM trisodium citrate), 50 mM sodium phosphate (pH 7.6), 5×Denhardt's solution, 10% dextran sulfate, and 20 μg/ml denatured, sheared salmon sperm DNA; followed by washing the filter in 0.1×SSC at about 65° C. In some embodiments, stringent hybridization conditions (e.g., conditions of high stringency) include overnight incubation at 42° C. in a solution comprising: 50% formamide, 5×SSC (1×SSC=150 mM NaCl, 15 mM trisodium citrate), 50 mM sodium phosphate (pH 7.6), 5×Denhardt's solution, 10% dextran sulfate, and 20 μg/ml denatured, sheared salmon sperm DNA; followed by a wash in 0.1×SSC/0.1% SDS (sodium dodecyl sulfate) or in 0.2×SSC/0.1% SDS at about 50° C., at about 55° C., at about 60° C. or at about 65° C. In some embodiments, said conditions of high stringency comprise washing at 65° C. with 0.1×SSC. In some embodiments, said conditions of high stringency comprise washing at about 50° C., at about 55° C., at about 60° C., or at about 65° with 0.1×SSC/0.1% SDS or with 0.2×SSC/0.1% SDS.

In some embodiments, a GPCR that may be used in the subject methods is a non-endogenous, constitutively activated receptor comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, wherein the leucine at amino acid position 224 of SEQ ID NO: 2 is substituted with an amino acid other than leucine. In some embodiments, the amino acid other than leucine is lysine. In some embodiments, the amino acid other than leucine is alanine. In some embodiments, the amino acid other than leucine is arginine. In some embodiments, the amino acid other than leucine is histidine. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, a GPCR of the invention comprises a constitutively active version of a G protein-coupled receptor having SEQ ID NO: 2. In some embodiments, the constitutively active version of the receptor is an endogenous constitutively active version having SEQ ID NO: 2. In some embodiments, the constitutively active version of the receptor is a non-endogenous constitutively active version having a mutation positioned at amino acid position 224 of SEQ ID NO: 2. In some embodiments, the mutated residue has been mutated to a residue other than leucine. In some embodiments, the mutated residue has been mutated to a lysine residue. In some embodiments, the mutated residue has been mutated to an alanine residue. In some embodiments, the mutated residue has been mutated to an arginine residue. In some embodiments, the mutated residue has been mutated to a histidine residue. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for increasing a level of intracellular cAMP. In some embodiments, the constitutive activity is for causing melanophore cells to undergo pigment dispersion.

In certain embodiments, a GPCR of the invention forms part of a fusion protein with a G protein.

a. Sequence Identity

In certain embodiments, percent identity is evaluated using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (“BLAST”), which is well known in the art [See, e.g., Karlin and Altschul, Proc Natl Acad Sci USA (1990) 87:2264-2268; Altschul et al., J Mol Biol (1990) 215:403-410; Altschul et all, Nature Genetics (1993) 3:266-272; and Altschul et al., Nucleic Acids Res (1997) 25:3389-3402; the disclosure of each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety]. The BLAST programs may be used with the default parameters or with modified parameters provided by the user. Preferably, the parameters are default parameters.

In certain embodiments, a preferred method for determining the best overall match between a query sequence (e.g., the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:2) and a sequence to be interrogated, also referred to as a global sequence alignment, can be determined using the FASTDB computer program based on the algorithm of Brutlag et al. (Comp App Biosci (1990) 6:237-245; the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety). In a sequence alignment the query and interrogated sequences are both amino acid sequences. The results of said global sequence alignment is in percent identity. Preferred parameters used in a FASTDB amino acid alignment are: Matrix=PAM 0, k-tuple=2, Mismatch Penalty=1, Joining Penalty=20, Randomization Group=25, Length=0, Cutoff Score=1, Window Size=sequence length, Gap Penalty=5, Gap Size Penalty=0.05, Window Size=247 or the length of the interrogated amino acid sequence, whichever is shorter. If the interrogated sequence is shorter than the query sequence due to N- or C-terminal deletions, not because of internal deletions, the results, in percent identity, must be manually corrected because the FASTDB program does not account for N- and C-terminal truncations of the interrogated sequence when calculating global percent identity. For interrogated sequences truncated at the N- and C-termini, relative to the query sequence, the percent identity is corrected by calculating the number of residues of the query sequence that are N- and C-terminal of the interrogated sequence, that are not matched/aligned with a corresponding interrogated sequence residue, as a percent of the total bses of the query sequence. Whether a residue is matched/aligned is determined by results of the FASTDB sequence alignment. This percentage is then subtracted from the percent identity, calculated by the above FASTDB program using the specified parameters, to arrive at a final percent identity score. This final percent identity score is what is used for the purposes of the present invention. Only residues to the N- and C-termini of the interrogated sequence, which are not matched/aligned with the query sequence, are considered for the purposes of manually adjusting the percent identity score. That is, only query amino acid residues outside the farthest N- and C-terminal residues of the interrogated sequence.

For example, a 90 amino acid residue interrogated sequence is aligned with a 100-residue query sequence to determine percent identity. The deletion occurs at the N-terminus of the interrogated sequence and therefore, the FASTDB alignment does not match/align with the first residues at the N-terminus. The 10 unpaired residues represent 10% of the sequence (number of residues at the N- and C-termini not matched/total number of residues in the query sequence) so 10% is subtracted from the percent identity score calculated by the FASTDB program. If the remaining 90 residues were perfectly matched, the final percent identity would be 90%.

In another example, a 90-residue interrogated sequence is compared with a 100-residue query sequence. This time the deletions are internal so there are no residues at the N- or C-termini of the interrogated sequence, which are not matched/aligned with the query. In this case, the percent identity calculated by FASTDB is not manually corrected. Once again, only residue positions outside the N- and C-terminal ends of the subject sequence, as displayed in the FASTDB alignment, which are not matched/aligned with the query sequence are manually corrected. No other corrections are made for the purposes of the present invention.

b. Fusion Proteins

In certain embodiments, a polypeptide of interest is a fusion protein, and may contain, for example, an affinity tag domain or a reporter domain. Suitable affinity tags include any amino acid sequence that may be specifically bound to another moiety, usually another polypeptide, most usually an antibody. Suitable affinity tags include epitope tags, for example, the V5 tag, the FLAG tag, the HA tag (from hemagglutinin influenza virus), the myc tag, and the like, as is known in the art. Suitable affinity tags also include domains for which, binding substrates are known, e.g., HIS, GST and MBP tags, as is known in the art, and domains from other proteins for which specific binding partners, e.g., antibodies, particularly monoclonal antibodies, are available. Suitable affinity tags also include any protein-protein interaction domain, such as a IgG Fc region, which may be specifically bound and detected using a suitable binding partner, e.g. the IgG Fc receptor. It is expressly contemplated that such a fusion protein may contain a heterologous N-terminal domain (e.g., an epitope tag) fused in-frame with a GPCR that has had its N-terminal methionine residue either deleted or substituted with an alternative amino acid.

Suitable reporter domains include any domain that can report the presence of a polypeptide. While it is recognized that an affinity tag may be used to report the presence of a polypeptide using, e.g., a labeled antibody that specifically binds to the tag, light emitting reporter domains are more usually used. Suitable light emitting reporter domains include luciferase (from, e.g., firefly, Vargula, Renilla reniformis or Renilla muelleri), or light emitting variants thereof. Other suitable reporter domains include fluorescent proteins, (from e.g., jellyfish, corals and other coelenterates as such those from Aequoria, Renilla, Pillosarcus, Stylatula species), or light emitting variants thereof. Light emitting variants of these reporter proteins are very well known in the art and may be brighter, dimmer, or have different excitation and/or emission spectra, as compared to a native reporter protein. For example, some variants are altered such that they no longer appear green, and may appear blue, cyan, yellow, enhanced yellow red (termed BFP, CFP, YFP eYFP and RFP, respectively) or have other emission spectra, as is known in the art. Other suitable reporter domains include domains that can report the presence of a polypeptide through a biochemical or color change, such as β-galactosidase, β-glucuronidase, chloramphenicol acetyl transferase, and secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase.

Also as is known in the art, an affinity tags or a reporter domain may be present at any position in a polypeptide of interest. However, in most embodiments, they are present at the C- or N-terminal end of a polypeptide of interest.

2. Nucleic Acids Encoding GPCR Polypeptides of Interest

Since the genetic code and recombinant techniques for manipulating nucleic acid are known, and the amino acid sequences of GPCR polypeptides of interest described as above, the design and production of nucleic acids encoding a GPCR polypeptide of interest is well within the skill of an artisan. In certain embodiments, standard recombinant DNA technology (Ausubel, et al, Short Protocols in Molecular Biology, 3rd ed., Wiley & Sons, 1995; Sambrook, et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Second Edition, (1989) Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.) methods are used. For example, GPCR coding sequences may be isolated from a library of GPCR coding sequence using any one or a combination of a variety of recombinant methods that do not need to be described herein. Subsequent substitution, deletion, and/or addition of nucleotides in the nucleic acid sequence encoding a protein may also be done using standard recombinant DNA techniques. For example, site directed mutagenesis and subcloning may be used to introduce/delete/substitute nucleic acid residues in a polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide of interest. In other embodiments, PCR may be used. Nucleic acids encoding a polypeptide of interest may also be made by chemical synthesis entirely from oligonucleotides (e.g., Cello et al., Science (2002) 297:1016-8). In some embodiments, the codons of the nucleic acids encoding polypeptides of interest are optimized for expression in cells of a particular species, particularly a mammalian, e.g., mouse, rat, hamster, non-human primate, or human, species. In some embodiments, the codons of the nucleic acids encoding polypeptides of interest are optimized for expression in cells of a particular species, particularly an amphibian species.

a. Vectors

The invention further provides vectors (also referred to as “constructs”) comprising a subject nucleic acid. In many embodiments of the invention, the subject nucleic acid sequences will be expressed in a host after the sequences have been operably linked to an expression control sequence, including, e.g. a promoter. The subject nucleic acids are also typically placed in an expression vector that can replicate in a host cell either as an episome or as an integral part of the host chromosomal DNA. Commonly, expression vectors will contain selection markers, e.g., tetracycline or neomycin, to permit detection of those cells transformed with the desired DNA sequences (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,704,362, which is incorporated herein by reference). Vectors, including single and dual expression cassette vectors are well known in the art (Ausubel, et al, Short Protocols in Molecular Biology, 3rd ed., Wiley & Sons, 1995; Sambrook, et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Second Edition, (1989) Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.). Suitable vectors include viral vectors, plasmids, cosmids, artificial chromosomes (human artificial chromosomes, bacterial artificial chromosomes, yeast artificial chromosomes, etc.), mini-chromosomes, and the like. Retroviral, adenoviral and adeno-associated viral vectors may be used.

A variety of expression vectors are available to those in the art for purposes of producing a polypeptide of interest in a cell and include expression vectors which are commercially available (e.g., from Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.; Clontech, Mountain View, Calif.; Stratagene, La Jolla, Calif.). Commercially available expression vectors include, by way of non-limiting example, CMV promoter-based vectors. One suitable expression vector is pCMV. The expression vector may be adenoviral. An exemplary adenoviral vector may be purchased as AdEasy™ from Qbiogene (Carlsbad, Calif.) (He T C et al, Proc Natl Acad Sci USA (1998) 95:2509-2514; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,922,576; the disclosure of each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety). Other suitable expression vectors will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

The subject nucleic acids usually comprise an single open reading frame encoding a subject polypeptide of interest, however, in certain embodiments, since the host cell for expression of the polypeptide of interest may be a eukaryotic cell, e.g., a mammalian cell, such as a human cell, the open reading frame may be interrupted by introns. Subject nucleic acid are typically part of a transcriptional unit which may contain, in addition to the subject nucleic acid 3′ and 5′ untranslated regions (UTRs) which may direct RNA stability, translational efficiency, etc. The subject nucleic acid may also be part of an expression cassette which contains, in addition to the subject nucleic acid a promoter, which directs the transcription and expression of a polypeptide of interest, and a transcriptional terminator.

Eukaryotic promoters can be any promoter that is functional in a eukaryotic host cell, including viral promoters and promoters derived from eukaryotic genes. Exemplary eukaryotic promoters include, but are not limited to, the following: the promoter of the mouse metallothionein I gene sequence (Hamer et al., J. Mol. Appl. Gen. 1:273-288, 1982); the TK promoter of Herpes virus (McKnight, Cell 31:355-365, 1982); the SV40 early promoter (Benoist et al., Nature (London) 290:304-310, 1981); the yeast gall gene sequence promoter (Johnston et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (USA) 79:6971-6975, 1982); Silver et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (USA) 81:5951-59SS, 1984), the CMV promoter, the EF-1 promoter, Ecdysone-responsive promoter(s), tetracycline-responsive promoter, and the like. Viral promoters may be of particular interest as they are generally particularly strong promoters. In certain embodiments, a promoter is used that is a promoter of the target pathogen. Promoters for use in the present invention are selected such that they are functional in the cell type (and/or animal) into which they are being introduced. In certain embodiments, the promoter is a CMV promoter.

In certain embodiments, a subject vector may also provide for expression of a selectable marker. Suitable vectors and selectable markers are well known in the art and discussed in Ausubel, et al, (Short Protocols in Molecular Biology, 3rd ed., Wiley & Sons, 1995) and Sambrook, et al, (Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Third Edition, (2001) Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.). A variety of different genes have been employed as selectable markers, and the particular gene employed in the subject vectors as a selectable marker is chosen primarily as a matter of convenience. Known selectable marker genes include: the thymidine kinase gene, the dihydrofolate reductase gene, the xanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase gene, CAD, the adenosine deaminase gene, the asparagine synthetase gene, the antibiotic resistance genes, e.g. tetr, ampr, Cmr or cat, kanr or neor (aminoglycoside phosphotransferase genes), the hygromycin B phosphotransferase gene, and the like. As mentioned above, polypeptides of interest may be fusion proteins that contain an affinity domain and/or a reporter domain. Methods for making fusions between a reporter or tag and a GPCR, for example, at the C- or N-terminus of the GPCR, are well within the skill of one of skill in the art (e.g. McLean et al, Mol. Pharma. Mol. Pharmacol. 1999 56:1182-91; Ramsay et al., Br. J. Pharmacology, 2001, 315-323) and will not be described any further. It is expressly contemplated that such a fusion protein may contain a heterologous N-terminal domain (e.g., an epitope tag) fused in-frame with a GPCR that has had its N-terminal methionine residue either deleted or substituted with an alternative amino acid. It is appreciated that a polypeptide of interest may first be made from a native polypeptide and then operably linked to a suitable reporter/tag as described above.

The subject nucleic acids may also contain restriction sites, multiple cloning sites, primer binding sites, ligatable ends, recombination sites etc., usually in order to facilitate the construction of a nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide of interest.

b. Host Cells

The invention further provides host cells comprising a vector comprising a subject nucleic acid. Suitable host cells include prokaryotic, e.g., bacterial cells (for example E. coli), as well as eukaryotic cells e.g. an animal cell (for example an insect, mammal, fish, amphibian, bird or reptile cell), a plant cell (for example a maize or Arabidopsis cell), or a fungal cell (for example a S. cerevisiae cell). In certain embodiments, any cell suitable for expression of a polypeptide of interest-encoding nucleic acid may be used as a host cell. Usually, an animal host cell line is used, examples of which are as follows: monkey kidney cells (COS cells), monkey kidney CV1 cells transformed by SV40 (COS-7, ATCC CRL 165 1); human embryonic kidney cells (HEK-293 [“293”], Graham et al. J. Gen Virol. 36:59 (1977)); HEK-293T [“293T”] cells; baby hamster kidney cells (BHK, ATCC CCL 10); chinese hamster ovary-cells (CHO, Urlaub and Chasin, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (USA) 77:4216, (1980); Syrian golden hamster cells MCB3901 (ATCC CRL-9595); mouse sertoli cells (TM4, Mather, Biol. Reprod. 23:243-251 (1980)); monkey kidney cells (CV1 ATCC CCL 70); african green monkey kidney cells (VERO-76, ATCC CRL-1587); human cervical carcinoma cells (HELA, ATCC CCL 2); canine kidney cells (MDCK, ATCC CCL 34); buffalo rat liver cells (BRL 3A, ATCC CRL 1442); human lung cells (W138, ATCC CCL 75); human liver cells (hep G2, HB 8065); mouse mammary tumor (MMT 060562, ATCC CCL 51); TR1 cells (Mather et al., Annals N.Y. Acad. Sci. 383:44-68 (1982)); NIH/3T3 cells (ATCC CRL-1658); and mouse L cells (ATCC CCL-1). In certain embodiments, melanophores are used. Melanophores are skin cells found in lower vertebrates. Relevant materials and methods will be followed according to the disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 5,462,856 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,051,386. These patent disclosures are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Additional cell lines will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and a wide variety of cell lines are available from the American Type Culture Collection, 10801 University Boulevard, Manassas, Va. 20110-2209.

C. Screening of Candidate Compounds

1. Generic GPCR Screening Assay Techniques

When a G protein receptor becomes active, it binds to a G protein (e.g., Gq, Gs, Gi, Gz, Go) and stimulates the binding of GTP to the G protein. The G protein then acts as a GTPase and slowly hydrolyzes the GTP to GDP, whereby the receptor, under normal conditions, becomes deactivated. However, activated receptors continue to exchange GDP to GTP. A non-hydrolyzable analog of GTP, [³⁵S]GTPγS, can be used to monitor enhanced binding to membranes which express activated receptors. It is reported that [³⁵S]GTPγS can be used to monitor G protein coupling to membranes in the absence and presence of ligand. An example of this monitoring, among other examples well-known and available to those in the art, was reported by Traynor and Nahorski in 1995. A preferred use of this assay system is for initial screening of candidate compounds because the system is generically applicable to all G protein-coupled receptors regardless of the particular G protein that interacts with the intracellular domain of the receptor.

2. Specific GPCR Screening Assay Techniques

Once candidate compounds are identified using the “generic” G protein-coupled receptor assay (i.e., an assay to select compounds that are agonists or inverse agonists), in some embodiments further screening to confirm that the compounds have interacted at the receptor site is preferred. For example, a compound identified by the “generic” assay may not bind to the receptor, but may instead merely “uncouple” the G protein from the intracellular domain.

a. Gs, Gz and Gi.

Gs stimulates the enzyme adenylyl cyclase. Gi (and Gz and Go), on the other hand, inhibit adenylyl cyclase. Adenylyl cyclase catalyzes the conversion of ATP to cAMP; thus, activated GPCRs that couple the Gs protein are associated with increased cellular levels of cAMP. On the other hand, activated GPCRs that couple Gi (or Gz, Go) protein are associated with decreased cellular levels of cAMP. See, generally, “Indirect Mechanisms of Synaptic Transmission,” Chpt. 8, From Neuron To Brain (3^(rd) Ed.) Nichols, J. G. et al eds. Sinauer Associates, Inc. (1992). Thus, assays that detect cAMP can be utilized to determine if a candidate compound is, e.g., an inverse agonist to the receptor (i.e., such a compound would decrease the levels of cAMP). A variety of approaches known in the art for measuring cAMP can be utilized; in some embodiments a preferred approach relies upon the use of anti-cAMP antibodies in an ELISA-based format. Another type of assay that can be utilized is a whole cell second messenger reporter system assay. Promoters on genes drive the expression of the proteins that a particular gene encodes. Cyclic AMP drives gene expression by promoting the binding of a cAMP-responsive DNA binding protein or transcription factor (CREB) that then binds to the promoter at specific sites called cAMP response elements and drives the expression of the gene. Reporter systems can be constructed which have a promoter containing multiple cAMP response elements before the reporter gene, e.g., β-galactosidase or luciferase. Thus, an activated Gs-linked receptor causes the accumulation of cAMP that then activates the gene and expression of the reporter protein. The reporter protein such as β-galactosidase or luciferase can then be detected using standard biochemical assays (Chen et al. 1995).

b. Go and Gq.

Gq and Go are associated with activation of the enzyme phospholipase C, which in turn hydrolyzes the phospholipid PIP₂, releasing two intracellular messengers: diacyclglycerol (DAG) and inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP₃). Increased accumulation of IP₃ is associated with activation of Gq- and Go-associated receptors. See, generally, “Indirect Mechanisms of Synaptic Transmission,” Chpt. 8, From Neuron To Brain (3^(rd) Ed.) Nichols, J. G. et al eds. Sinauer Associates, Inc. (1992). Assays that detect IP₃ accumulation can be utilized to determine if a candidate compound is, e.g., an inverse agonist to a Gq- or Go-associated receptor (i.e., such a compound would decrease the levels of IP₃). Gq-associated receptors can also been examined using an API reporter assay in that Gq-dependent phospholipase C causes activation of genes containing API elements; thus, activated Gq-associated receptors will evidence an increase in the expression of such genes, whereby inverse agonists thereto will evidence a decrease in such expression, and agonists will evidence an increase in such expression. Commercially available assays for such detection are available.

3. GPCR Fusion Protein

The use of an endogenous, constitutively active GPCR or a non-endogenous, constitutively activated GPCR, for use in screening of candidate compounds for the direct identification of inverse agonists or agonists provides an interesting screening challenge in that, by definition, the receptor is active even in the absence of an endogenous ligand bound thereto. Thus, in order to differentiate between, e.g., the non-endogenous receptor in the presence of a candidate compound and the non-endogenous receptor in the absence of that compound, with an aim of such a differentiation to allow for an understanding as to whether such compound may be an inverse agonist or agonist or have no affect on such a receptor, in some embodiments it is preferred that an approach be utilized that can enhance such differentiation. In some embodiments, a preferred approach is the use of a GPCR Fusion Protein.

Generally, once it is determined that a non-endogenous GPCR has been constitutively activated using the assay techniques set forth above (as well as others known to the art-skilled), it is possible to determine the predominant G protein that couples with the endogenous GPCR. Coupling of the G protein to the GPCR provides a signaling pathway that can be assessed. In some embodiments it is preferred that screening take place using a mammalian or a melanophore expression system, as such a system will be expected to have endogenous G protein therein. Thus, by definition, in such a system, the non-endogenous, constitutively activated GPCR will continuously signal. In some embodiments it is preferred that this signal be enhanced such that in the presence of, e.g., an inverse agonist to the receptor, it is more likely that it will be able to more readily differentiate, particularly in the context of screening, between the receptor when it is contacted with the inverse agonist.

The GPCR Fusion Protein is intended to enhance the efficacy of G protein coupling with the GPCR. The GPCR Fusion Protein may be preferred for screening with either an endogenous, constitutively active GPCR or a non-endogenous, constitutively activated GPCR because such an approach increases the signal that is generated in such screening techniques. This is important in facilitating a significant “signal to noise” ratio; such a significant ratio is preferred for the screening of candidate compounds as disclosed herein.

The construction of a construct useful for expression of a GPCR Fusion Protein is within the purview of those having ordinary skill in the art. Commercially available expression vectors and systems offer a variety of approaches that can fit the particular needs of an investigator. Important criteria in the construction of such a GPCR Fusion Protein construct include but are not limited to, that the GPCR sequence and the G protein sequence both be in-frame (preferably, the sequence for the endogenous GPCR is upstream of the G protein sequence), and that the “stop” codon of the GPCR be deleted or replaced such that upon expression of the GPCR, the G protein can also be expressed. The GPCR can be linked directly to the G protein, or there can be spacer residues between the two (preferably, no more than about 12, although this number can be readily ascertained by one of ordinary skill in the art). Based upon convenience, it is preferred to use a spacer. In some embodiments, it is preferred that the G protein that couples to the non-endogenous GPCR will have been identified prior to the creation of the GPCR Fusion Protein construct. As noted above, activated GPCRs that couple to Gi, Gz and Go are expected to inhibit the formation of cAMP making assays based upon these types of GPCRs challenging (i.e., the cAMP signal decreases upon activation, thus making the direct identification of, e.g., agonists (which would further decrease this signal) challenging). As will be disclosed herein, it has been ascertained that for these types of receptors, it is possible to create a GPCR Fusion Protein that is not based upon the GPCR's endogenous G protein, in an effort to establish a viable cyclase-based assay. Thus, for example, an endogenous Gi coupled receptor can be fused to a Gs protein—such a fusion construct, upon expression, “drives” or “forces” the endogenous GPCR to couple with, e.g., Gs rather than the “natural” Gi protein, such that a cyclase-based assay can be established. Thus, for Gi, Gz and Go coupled receptors, in some embodiments it is preferred that when a GPCR Fusion Protein is used and the assay is based upon detection of adenylyl cyclase activity, that the fusion construct be established with Gs (or an equivalent G protein that stimulates the formation of the enzyme adenylyl cyclase).

TABLE C Effect of cAMP Production upon Effect of IP₃ Effect of Effect Activation of Accumulation cAMP on IP₃ GPCR (i.e., upon Activation Production Accumulation constitutive of GPCR (i.e., upon contact upon contact activation or constitutive with an with an G agonist activation or Inverse Inverse protein binding) agonist binding) Agonist Agonist Gs Increase N/A Decrease N/A Gi Decrease N/A Increase N/A Gz Decrease N/A Increase N/A Go Decrease Increase Increase Decrease Gq N/A Increase N/A Decrease

Equally effective is a G Protein Fusion construct that utilizes a Gq Protein fused with a Gs, Gi, Gz or Go Protein. In some embodiments a preferred fusion construct can be accomplished with a Gq Protein wherein the first six (6) amino acids of the G-protein α-subunit (“Gαq”) is deleted and the last five (5) amino acids at the C-terminal end of Gαq is replaced with the corresponding amino acids of the Gα of the G protein of interest. For example, a fusion construct can have a Gq (6 amino acid deletion) fused with a Gi Protein, resulting in a “Gq/Gi Fusion Construct”. This fusion construct will force the endogenous Gi coupled receptor to couple to its non-endogenous G protein, Gq, such that the second messenger, for example, inositol triphosphate or diacylgycerol, can be measured in lieu of cAMP production.

4. Co-transfection of a Target Gi Coupled GPCR with a Signal-Enhancer Gs Coupled GPCR (cAMP Based Assays)

A Gi coupled receptor is known to inhibit adenylyl cyclase, and, therefore, decreases the level of cAMP production, which can make the assessment of cAMP levels challenging. In certain embodiments, an effective technique in measuring the decrease in production of cAMP as an indication of activation of a receptor that predominantly couples Gi upon activation can be accomplished by co-transfecting a signal enhancer, e.g., a non-endogenous, constitutively activated receptor that predominantly couples with Gs upon activation (e.g., TSHR-A623I; see infra), with the Gi linked GPCR. As is apparent, activation of a Gs coupled receptor can be determined based upon an increase in production of cAMP. Activation of a Gi coupled receptor leads to a decrease in production cAMP. Thus, the co-transfection approach is intended to advantageously exploit these “opposite” affects. For example, co-transfection of a non-endogenous, constitutively activated Gs coupled receptor (the “signal enhancer”) with expression vector alone provides a baseline cAMP signal (i.e., although the Gi coupled receptor will decrease cAMP levels, this “decrease” will be relative to the substantial increase in cAMP levels established by constitutively activated Gs coupled signal enhancer). By then co-transfecting the signal enhancer with the “target receptor”, an inverse agonist of the Gi coupled target receptor will increase the measured cAMP signal, while an agonist of the Gi coupled target receptor will decrease this signal.

Candidate compounds that are directly identified using this approach should be assessed independently to ensure that these do not target the signal enhancing receptor (this can be done prior to or after screening against the co-transfected receptors).

Composition/Formulation and Methods of Treatment

A GPR119 agonist can be formulated into pharmaceutical compositions and medicaments for use in accordance with the present invention using techniques well known in the art. Proper formulation is dependent on the route of administration chosen. In certain embodiments, said administration is to a non-human vertebrate or to a non-human mammal.

As relates to therapies of the present invention, namely therapies relating to a GPR119 agonist, the compounds according to the invention can be administered in any suitable way. Suitable routes of administration include oral, nasal, rectal, transmucosal, transdermal, or intestinal administration, parenteral delivery, including intramuscular, subcutaneous, intramedullary injections, as well as intrathecal, direct intraventricular, intravenous, intraperitoneal, intranasal, intrapulmonary (inhaled) or intraocular injections using methods known in the art. Other suitable routes of administration are aerosol and depot formulation. Sustained release formulations, particularly depot, of the invented medicaments are expressly contemplated. In certain preferred embodiments, the compounds according to the present invention are administered orally. The compounds according to the present invention can be made up in solid or liquid form, such as tablets, capsules, powders, syrups, elixirs and the like, aerosols, sterile solutions, suspensions or emulsions, and the like. In certain embodiments, the GPR119 agonist is administered orally.

Formulations for oral administration may be in the form of aqueous solutions and suspensions, in addition to solid tablet and capsule formulations. The aqueous solutions and suspensions may be prepared from sterile powders or granules. The compounds may be dissolved in water, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, ethanol, corn oil, cottonseed oil, peanut oil, sesame oil, benzyl alcohol, sodium chloride, and/or various buffers. Other adjuvants are well and widely known in the art.

Pharmaceutical compositions of the GPR119 agonist may be prepared by methods well known in the art, e.g., by means of conventional mixing, dissolving, granulation, dragee-making, levigating, emulsifying, encapsulating, entrapping, lyophilizing processes or spray drying.

Pharmaceutical compositions for use in accordance with the present invention may be formulated in conventional manner using one or more physiologically acceptable carriers comprising excipients and auxiliaries which facilitate processing of the active compounds into preparations which can be used pharmaceutically. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are available to those in the art (see, e.g., Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, (Gennaro et al., eds.), 20^(th) Edition, 2000, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; and Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients (Rowe et al., eds), 4^(th) Edition, 2003, Pharmaceutical Press; the disclosure of each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety). Proper formulation is dependent upon the route of administration chosen. The term “carrier” material or “excipient” material herein means any substance, not itself a therapeutic agent, used as a carrier and/or dilutent and/or adjuvant, or vehicle for delivery of a therapeutic agent to a subject or added to a pharmaceutical composition to improve its handling or storage properties or to permit or facilitate formation of a dose unit of the composition into a discrete article such as a capsule or tablet suitable for oral administration. Excipients can include, by way of illustration and not limitation, diluents, disintegrants, binding agents, adhesives, wetting agents, polymers, lubricants, glidants, substances added to mask or counteract a disagreeable taste or odor, flavors, dyes, fragrances, and substances added to improved appearance of the composition. Acceptable excipients include stearic acid, magnesium stearate, magnesium oxide, sodium and calcium salts of phosphoric and sulfuric acids, magnesium carbonate, talc, gelatin, acacia gum, sodium alginate, pectin, dextrin, mannitol, sorbitol, lactose, sucrose, starches, gelatin, cellulosic materials, such as cellulose esters of alkanoic acids and cellulose alkyl esters, low melting wax cocoa butter or powder, polymers, such as polyvinyl-pyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, and polytheylene glycols, and other pharmaceutically acceptable materials. The components of the pharmaceutical composition can be encapsulated or tableted for convenient administration.

Pharmaceutically acceptable refers to those properties and/or substances which are acceptable to the patient from a pharmacological/toxicological point of view and to the manufacturing pharmaceutical chemist from a physical/chemical point of view regarding composition, formulation, stability, patient acceptance and bioavailability.

Dragee cores are provided with suitable coatings. For this purpose, concentrated sugar solutions may be used which may optionally contain gum Arabic, talc, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, carbopol gel, polyethylene glycol, and/or titanium dioxide, lacquer solutions, and suitable organic solvents or solvent mixtures. Dyestuffs or pigments may be added to the tablets or dragee coatings for identification or to characterize different combinations of active compound doses.

Pharmaceutical compositions which can be used orally include push-fit capsules made of gelatin, as well as soft, sealed capsules made of gelatin and a plasticizer, such as glycerol or sorbitol. The push-fit capsules can contain the active ingredients in admixture with a filler such as lactose, a binder such as starch, and/or a lubricant such as talc or magnesium stearate and, optionally, stabilizers. In soft capsules, the active compounds may be dissolved or suspended in suitable liquids, such as fatty oils, liquid paraffin, liquid polyethylene glycols, cremophor, capmul, medium or long chain mono-, di- or triglycerides. Stabilizers may be added in these formulations, also.

Additionally, a GPR119 agonist may be delivered using a sustained-release system. Various sustained-release materials have been established and are well known to those skilled in the art. Sustained-release tablets or capsules are particularly preferred. For example, a time delay material such as glyceryl monostearate or glyceryl distearate may be employed. The dosage form may also be coated by the techniques described in the U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,256,108, 4,166,452, and 4,265,874 to form osmotic therapeutic tablets for controlled release.

It is expressly contemplated that therapies of the present invention, namely therapies relating to a GPR119 agonist, may be administered or provided alone or in combination with one or more other pharmaceutically or physiologically acceptable compound. In one aspect of the present invention, the other pharmaceutically or physiologically acceptable compound is not a GPR119 agonist. In one aspect of the present invention, the other pharmaceutically or physiologically acceptable compound is a pharmaceutical agent selected from the group consisting of calcium, vitamin D, estrogen, tibolone, selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM; e.g., raloxifene, tamoxifen), biphosphonate (e.g., etidronate, alendronate, risedronate), calcitonin, 1α-hydroxylated metabolite of vitamin D, fluoride, thiazide, anabolic steroid, ipriflavone, vitamin K, parathyroid hormone (PTH), strontium, statin, osteoprotererin, EP4 receptor selective agonist, cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) selective agonist, and p38 MAP kinase inhibitor. (See, e.g., World Health Organization Technical Report Series 921 (2003), Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis.)

In one aspect, the present invention features a composition comprising or consisting essentially of an amount of a GPR119 agonist according to the present invention. In one aspect, the present invention features a pharmaceutical composition comprising or consisting essentially of an amount of a GPR119 agonist according to the present invention and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In one aspect, the present invention features a composition comprising or consisting essentially of an amount of a GPR119 agonist according to the present invention. In one aspect, the present invention features a pharmaceutical composition comprising or consisting essentially of an amount of a GPR119 agonist according to the present invention and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention also relates to a dosage form of the composition or of the pharmaceutical composition wherein the GPR119 agonist is in an amount sufficient to give an effect in treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and/or in increasing bone mass in an individual.

In one aspect, the present invention features a composition comprising or consisting essentially of an amount of a GPR119 agonist according to the present invention. In one aspect, the present invention features a pharmaceutical composition comprising or consisting essentially of an amount of a GPR119 agonist according to the present invention and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention also relates to a dosage form of the composition or of the pharmaceutical composition wherein the GPR119 agonist is in an amount sufficient to give an effect in increasing a GIP level in an individual.

Pharmaceutical compositions suitable for use in the present invention include compositions wherein the active ingredients are contained in an amount to achieve their intended purpose. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition of the present invention is understood to be useful for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, or for increasing bone mass in an individual. Conditions characterized by low bone mass are according to the present invention. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition of the present invention is understood to be useful for increasing a GIP level in an individual. As relates to the present invention, determination of the amount of a GPR119 agonist sufficient to achieve an intended purpose according to the invention is well within the capability of those skilled in the art, especially in light of the detailed disclosure provided herein.

The data obtained from animal studies, including but not limited to studies using mice, rats, rabbits, pigs, and non-human primates, can be used in formulating a range of dosage for use in humans. In general, one skilled in the art understands how to extrapolate in vivo data obtained in an animal model system to another, such as a human. In some circumstances, these extrapolations may merely be based on the weight of the animal model in comparison to another, such as a human; in other circumstances, these extrapolations are not simply based on weights but rather incorporate a variety of factors. Representative factors include the type, age, weight, sex, diet and medical condition of the patient, the severity of the disease, the route of administration, pharmacological considerations such as the activity, efficacy, pharmacokinetic and toxicology profiles of the particular compound employed, whether a drug delivery system is utilized, on whether an acute or chronic disease state is being treated or prophylaxis is conducted or on whether further active compounds are administered in addition to the compounds of the present invention and as part of a drug combination. The dosage regimen for treating a disease condition with the compounds and/or compositions of this invention is selected in accordance with a variety factors as cited above. Thus, the actual dosage regimen employed may vary widely and therefore may deviate from a preferred dosage regimen and one skilled in the art will recognize that dosage and dosage regimen outside these typical ranges can be tested and, where appropriate, may be used in the methods of this invention.

An exemplary animal model system is the rat ovariectomy (OVX) bone loss model. The ovariectomized rat is an excellent preclinical animal model that correctly emulates the important clinical feature of the estrogen depleted human skeleton and the response of therapeutic agents. In this model, a therapeutic efficacy is achieved when the bone loss associated with ovariectomy is partially or completely prevented. (See, e.g., Bollag et al, Mol Cell Endocrinol (2001) 177:35-41; and Jee et al, J Musculoskel Neuron Interact (2001) 1:193-207.) In certain embodiments, therapeutic efficacy is achieved when the bone loss associated with ovariectomy is at least about 10% prevented, at least about 20% prevented, at least about 30% prevented, at least about 40% prevented, at least about 50% prevented, at least about 60% prevented, at least about 70% prevented, at least about 75% prevented, at least about 80% prevented, at least about 85% prevented, at least about 90% prevented, at least about 95% prevented, or 100% prevented.

An additional exemplary animal model system is increase of a blood GIP level after glucose challenge in mice. In certain embodiments, the blood GIP level is a plasma GIP level. In certain embodiments, the GIP level is a glucose-independent GIP level. In certain embodiments, the GIP level is a glucose-dependent GIP level. In certain embodiments, the GIP is total GIP. In certain embodiments, the total GIP is measured using a centrally or C-terminally directed assay. In certain embodiments, the GIP is bioactive GIP. In certain embodiments, the bioactive GIP is measured using an N-terminal-specific assay. In certain embodiments, the bioactive GIP has activity for promoting bone formation. In certain embodiments, therapeutic efficacy is achieved when the blood GIP level is increased by at least about 10%, at least about 25%, at least about 50%, at least about 100%, at least about 150%, at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, or at least about 500%.

Dosage amount and interval may be adjusted in order to provide an intended therapeutic effect. It will be appreciated that the exact dosage of a GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention will vary depending on the GPR119 agonist, its potency, the mode of administration, the age and weight of the patient and the severity of the condition to be treated. The exact formulation, route of administration and dosage can be chosen by the individual physician in view of the patient's condition. By way of illustration and not limitation, an amount of a GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention is less than about 0.001 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.005 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.01 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.05 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.1 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.5 mg/kg body weight, less than about 1 mg/kg body weight, less than about 5 mg/kg body weight, less than about 10 mg/kg body weight, less than about 50 mg/kg body weight, or less than about 100 mg/kg body weight. In certain embodiments, an amount of a GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention is less than about 0.001-100 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.001-50 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.001-10 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.001-5 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.001-1 mg/kg body Weight, less than about 0.001 to 0.5 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.001-0.1 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.001-0.05 mg/kg body weight, less than about 0.001-0.01 mg/kg body weight, or less than about 0.001-0.005 mg/kg body weight.

A preferred dosage range for the amount of a modulator of the invention (e.g. a GPR119 agonist), which can be administered on a daily or regular basis to achieve desired results is 0.1-100 mg/kg body mass. Other preferred dosage range is 0.1-30 mg/kg body mass. Other preferred dosage range is 0.1-10 mg/kg body mass. Other preferred dosage range is 0.1-3.0 mg/kg body mass. Of course, these daily dosages can be delivered or administered in small amounts periodically during the course of a day. It is noted that these dosage ranges are only preferred ranges and are not meant to be limiting to the invention.

Dosage amount and interval may be adjusted individually to provide plasma levels of a GPR119 agonist according to the present invention which achieve an intended therapeutic effect. Dosage intervals can also be determined using the value for a selected range of GPR119 agonist concentration so as to achieve the intended therapeutic effect. A GPR119 agonist should be administered using a regimen that maintains plasma levels within the selected range of GPR119 agonist concentration for 10-90% of the time, preferably between 30-99% of the time, and most preferably between 50-90% of the time. In cases of local administration or selective uptake, the range of GPR119 agonist concentration providing the intended therapeutic effect may not be related to plasma concentration.

The amount of composition administered will, of course, be dependent on the individual being treated, on the individual's weight, the severity of the affliction, the manner of administration, and the judgement of the prescribing physician.

In one aspect, the present invention accordingly features a method of treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, or of increasing bone mass comprising administering to an individual in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a composition comprising or consisting essentially of an amount of a GPR119 agonist according to the present invention. In certain embodiments, the composition is a pharmaceutical composition.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method of treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, or of increasing bone mass comprising administering to an individual in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a composition comprising or consisting essentially of an amount of a GPR119 agonist according to the present invention. In a related aspect, the present invention features said method wherein the GPR119 agonist is administered in an amount sufficient to give an effect in increasing a GIP level in the individual. In certain embodiments, the composition is a pharmaceutical composition.

Therapies of the present invention, namely therapies relating to a GPR119 agonist are useful in treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass in an individival and in increasing bone mass in an individual.

Conditions characterized by low bone mass include but are not limited to osteopenia, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, periodontal disease, alveolar bone loss, osteotomy bone loss, childhood idiopathic bone loss, Paget's disease, bone loss due to metastatic cancer, osteolytic lesions, curvature of the spine, and loss of height. In certain embodiments, the condition characterized by low bone mass is osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, the condition characterized by low bone mass is osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is primary osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is secondary osteoporosis. Conditions characterized by low bone mass also include but are not limited to long-term complications of osteoporosis such as curvature of the spine, loss of height and prosthetic surgery. It is understood that conditions characterized by low bone mass can be included in embodiments individually or in any combination. In certain embodiments, the condition characterized by low bone mass is primary osteoporosis.

In certain embodiments, the individual in need of increased bone mass has a bone mineral density (BMD) of greater than 1 (T-score <−1), greater than or equal to 1.5 (T-score ≦−1.5), greater than or equal to 2 (T-score ≦−2) or greater than or equal to 2.5 (T-score ≦−2.5) standard deviations below the young adult reference mean. In certain embodiments, the individual in need of increased bone mass is in need of treatment of bone fracture. In certain embodiments, the individual in need of treatment of a bone fracture has a traumatic bone fracture, a long-term bone fracture, or an osteoporotic bone fracture. In certain embodiments, the individual is in need of treatment for a bone disease. In certain embodiments, the individual in need of treatment for a bone disease has osteopenia, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, periodontal disease, alveolar bone loss, osteotomy bone loss, childhood idiopathic bone loss, Paget's disease, bone loss due to metastatic cancer, osteolytic lesions, curvature of the spine, or loss of height. In certain embodiments, the individual in need of treatment for a bone disease has osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is primary osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is secondary osteoporosis. Destructive bone disorders that can be treated according to the invention include but are not limited to osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and osteolytic lesions such as those caused by neoplastic disease, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is primary osteoporosis. In certain embodiments, osteoporosis is secondary osteoporosis.

Therapies of the present invention, namely therapies relating to a GPR119 agonist are additionally useful in enhancing bone healing following facial reconstruction, maxillary reconstruction, mandibular reconstruction, periodontal disease or tooth extraction, enhancing long bone extension, enhancing prosthetic ingrowth or increasing bone synostosis in an individual.

In certain embodiments, the individual is a vertebrate. In certain embodiments, the individual that is a vertebrate is a fish, an amphibian, a reptile, a bird or a mammal. In certain embodiments, the individual or vertebrate is a mammal. In certain embodiments, the individual or vertebrate that is a mammal is a mouse, a rat, a hamster, a rabbit, a pig, a dog, a cat, a horse, a cow, a sheep, a goat, a non-human mammal, a non-human primate or a human. In certain embodiments, the individual is a human. In certain embodiments, the human is a post-menopausal woman or a man over the age of 50.

Without further elaboration, it is believed that one skilled in the art can, using the preceding description, practice the present invention to its fullest extent. The foregoing detailed description is given for clearness of understanding only, and no unnecessary limitation should be understood therefrom, as modifications within the scope of the invention may become apparent to those skilled in the art.

This application claims the benefit of priority from the following provisional patent application, filed via U.S. Express Mail with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on the indicated date: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/791,550, filed Apr. 11, 2006. The disclosure of the foregoing provisional patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Throughout this application, various publications, patents and patent applications are cited. The disclosures of these publications, patents and patent applications referenced in this application are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety into the present disclosure. Citation herein by Applicant of a publication, patent, or patent application is not an admission by Applicant of said publication, patent, or patent application as prior art.

EXAMPLES

Without further elaboration, it is believed that one skilled in the art can, using the preceding description, practice the present invention to its fullest extent. The following detailed examples are to be construed as merely illustrative, and not limitations of the preceding disclosure in any way whatsoever. Those skilled in the art will promptly recognize appropriate variations from the procedures.

Example 1 Pharmacodynamic Analysis of an Effect of Administration of GPR119 Agonist on Blood GIP Level in Wild-Type Mice

A. C57blk/6 male mice were fasted for 18 hours, and randomly assigned into fourteen groups with n=6 for each group. Mice were administered per orally with vehicle (PET; 80% PEG400, 10% ethanol, 10% Tween80) or with a GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention (Compound 1; (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine) at 20 mg/kg, as indicated in FIG. 1A. Thirty minutes after treatment, a glucose bolus at 3 g/kg were delivered per orally, and plasma were collected at 0 (no glucose bolus), 2, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 60 minutes after glucose bolus. Plasma GIP levels were determined by using a rodent GIP ELISA kit purchased from Linco Research Laboratory [Rat/Mouse Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide (Total) ELISA Catalog #EZRMGIP-55K], following instructions provided by the supplier. From the results shown in FIG. 1A, it is apparent that administration of the GPR119 agonist increased both a glucose-dependent and a glucose-independent level of GIP in the blood of the mice. Compound 1 stimulated plasma total GIP in the mice. Compound 1 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/001267 (published as WO 2004/065380).

B. C57blk/6 male mice were fasted for 18 hours, and randomly assigned into fourteen groups with n=6 for each group. Mice were administered per orally with vehicle (20% hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPCD)) or with a GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention (Compound 3) at 10 mg/kg, as indicated in FIG. 1B. Thirty minutes after treatment, a glucose bolus at 3 g/kg were delivered per orally, and plasma were collected at 0 (no glucose bolus), 5, 10, 20, 60 and 120 minutes after glucose bolus. Plasma GIP levels were determined by using a rodent GIP ELISA kit purchased from Linco Research Laboratory [Rat/Mouse Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide (Total) ELISA Catalog #EZRMGIP-55K], following instructions provided by the supplier. Statistical analysis was performed using Excel program. Mean values of GIP concentration were calculated based on results with six mice in each group and shown as mean±SEM. From the results shown in FIG. 1B, it is apparent that administration of the GPR119 agonist increased both a glucose-dependent and a glucose-independent level of GIP in the blood of the mice. Compound 3 stimulated plasma total GIP in the mice. Compound 3 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/022327 (published as WO 2005/007647).

C. C57blk/6 male mice were fasted for 18 hours, and randomly assigned into fourteen groups with n=6 for each group. Mice were administered per orally with vehicle (20% hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPCD)) or with a GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention (Compound 3) at 1, 3, or 10 mg/kg. Thirty minutes after treatment, a glucose bolus at 3 g/kg was delivered per orally, and plasma were collected at 0 (no glucose bolus) or 5 minutes after glucose bolus. Plasma GIP levels were determined by using a rodent GIP ELISA kit purchased from Linco Research Laboratory [Rat/Mouse Gastric Inhibitory Peptide (Total) ELISA Catalog #EZRMGIP-55K], following instructions provided by the supplier. Statistical analysis was performed using Excel program. Mean values of GIP concentration were calculated based on results with six mice in each group and are shown in FIG. 1C. From FIG. 1C, it is apparent that the GPR119 agonist (Compound 3) stimulated plasma total GIP in the mice in a dose-dependent manner. Compound 3 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/022327 (published as WO 2005/007647).

Example 2 Effect of Administration of GPR119 Agonist on Blood GIP Level in GPR119-Deficient (Knockout) Mice Compared to Wild-Type Mice

A. GPR119-deficient male mice and wild-type littermates were fasted for 18 hours. Mice were administered per orally with vehicle (PET; 80% PEG400, 10% ethanol, 10% Tween80) or with a GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention (Compound 1; (2-Fluoro-4-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-{6-[4-(3-isopropyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-5-nitro-pyrimidin-4-yl}-amine) at 20 mg/kg, as indicated (n=5). Thirty minutes after treatment, blood (100 microliter) was collected via retro orbital vein of the eye (time 0) followed by a glucose bolus at 3 g/kg (per orally). Five minutes after delivering glucose, another blood sample (100 microliter) was collected (time 5 minutes). Plasma were collected after centrifugation and GIP levels were determined by using a rodent GIP ELISA kit purchased from Linco Research Laboratory [Rat/Mouse Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide (Total) ELISA Catalog #EZRMGIP-55K], following instructions provided by the supplier. From the results shown in FIG. 2A, it is apparent that functional GPR119 receptor was necessary for the administered GPR119 agonist to increase a glucose-independent level and a glucose-dependent level of GIP in the blood of the mice. Compound 1 stimulated plasma total GIP in the wild-type mice. Compound 1 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/001267 (published as WO 2004/065380).

B. GPR119-deficient male mice and wild-type littermates were fasted for 18 hours. Mice were administered per orally with vehicle (40% hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPCD)) or with a GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention (Compound 2) at 30 mg/kg, as indicated (n=5). Thirty minutes after treatment, blood (100 microliter) was collected via retro orbital vein of the eye (time 0) followed by a glucose bolus at 3 g/kg (per orally). Five minutes after delivering glucose, another blood sample (100 microliter) was collected (time 5 minutes). Plasma were collected after centrifugation and GIP levels were determined by using a rodent GIP ELISA kit purchased from Linco Research Laboratory [Rat/Mouse Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide (Total) ELISA Catalog #EZRMGIP-55K], following instructions provided by the supplier. Mean values of GIP concentration were calculated based on results with five mice in each group. From the results shown in FIG. 2B, it is apparent that functional GPR119 receptor was necessary for the administered GPR119 agonist to increase a glucose-independent level and a glucose-dependent level of GIP in the blood of the mice. Compound 2 stimulated plasma total GIP in the wild-type mice. Compound 2 is identical to a compound disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/022417 (published as WO 2005/007658).

Example 3 Effect of Administration OF GPR119 Agonist on Bone Mass in Ovariectomized Rats

A GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention can be shown to be effective in treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and/or in increasing bone mass in an individual using the in vivo ovariectomized (OVX) rat model described below (see, e.g., Bollag et al, Mol Cell Endocrinol (2001) 177:35-41).

Twenty virgin female OVX and 20 virgin non-OVX Sprague-Dawley rats (150-175 g), age 8 weeks, are purchased from Harlan Sprague-Dawley, Inc. (Indianapolis, Ind.). Animals are fed ad libitum on a normal commercial pellet diet, Teklab Rodent diet (1.46% calcium), with free access to water. The rats are randomly divided into four weight-matched experimental groups and selected to receive per orally vehicle or a GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention. Treatment is continued on a daily basis for 6 weeks.

1. Control. Ten non-OVX rats are administered per orally vehicle.

2. Control+Treatment. Ten non-OVX rats are administered per orally GPR119 agonist.

3. OVX. Ten OVX rats are administered per orally vehicle.

4. OVX+Treatment. Ten OVX rats are administered per orally GPR119 agonist. The rats are weighed daily and length measured at baseline and again at 6 weeks. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) using a Hologic QDR 1000/W (Waltham, Mass.) is performed on all animals prior to initiation of treatment and at 6 weeks, and data is analyzed using the software Rat Whole Body version 5.53. Bone mineral density (BMD) is determined at the spine.

The percent change in vertebral bone density after 6 weeks of treatment is determined. It is shown that administration of a GPR119 agonist attenuates the negative effects of ovariectomy on vertebral bone density. Attenuation of the negative effects of ovariectomy on vertebral bone density is indicative of the treatment having efficacy in treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and/or in increasing bone mass in an individual.

Example 4 Effect of Administration of GPR119 Agonist on Bone Fracture Healing

A GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention can be shown to be effective in treatment of bone fracture using the in viva assay described below.

Fracture Technique

Sprague-Dawley rats at 3 months of age are anesthetized with Ketamine. A 1 cm incision is made on the anteromedial aspect of the proximal part of the right tibia or femur. The following describes the tibial surgical technique. The incision is carried through to the bone, and a 1 mm hole is drilled 4 mm proximal to the distal aspect of the tibial tuberosity 2 mm medial to the anterior ridge. Intramedullary nailing is performed with a 0.8 mm stainless steel tube (maximum load 36.3 N, maximum stiffness 61.8 N/mm, tested under the same conditions as the bones). No reaming of the medullary canal is performed. A standardized closed fracture is produced 2 mm above the tibiofibular junction by three-point bending using specially designed adjustable forceps with blunt jaws. To minimize soft tissue damage, care is taken not to displace the fracture. The skin is closed with monofilament nylon sutures. The operation is performed under sterile conditions. Radiographs of all fractures are taken immediately after nailing, and rats with fractures outside the specified diaphyseal area or with displaced nails are excluded. The remaining animals are divided randomly into the following groups with 10-12 animals per each subgroup per time point for testing the fracture healing. The rats are administered on a daily basis per orally with vehicle or with a GPR119 agonist. The GPR119 agonist is used at an amount between 0.001 mg/kg body weight and 100 mg/kg body weight. Treatment is continued for 10, 20, 40 and 80 days.

At 10, 20, 40 and 80 days, 10-12 rats from each group are anesthetized with Ketamine and sacrificed by exsanguination. Both tibiofibular bones are removed by dissection and all soft tissue is stripped. Bones from 5-6 rats for each group are stored in 70% ethanol for histological analysis, and bones from another 5-6 rats for each group are stored in a buffered Ringer's solution (+4° C., pH 7.4) for radiographs and biomechanical testing which is performed.

Histological Analysis

The methods for histological analysis of fractured bone have been previously published by Mosekilde and Bak (Bone (1993) 14:19-27). Briefly, the fracture site is sawed 8 mm to each side of the fracture line, embedded undecalcified in methymethacrylate, and cut frontals sections on a Reichert-Jung Polycut microtome in 8 μm thick. Masson-Trichome stained mid-frontal sections (including both tibia and fibula) are used for visualization of the cellular and tissue response to fracture healing with and without treatment. Sirius red stained sections are used to demonstrate the characteristics of the callus structure and to differentiate between woven bone and lamellar bone at the fracture site. The following measurements are performed: (1) fracture gap—measured as the shortest distance between the cortical bone ends in the fracture, (2) callus length and callus diameter, (3) total bone volume area of callus, (4) bony tissue per tissue area inside the callus area, (5) fibrous tissue in the callus, and (6) cartilage area in the callus.

Biomechanical Analysis

The methods for biomechanical analysis have been previously published by Bak and Andreassen (Calcif Tissue Int (1989) 45:292-297). Briefly, radiographs of all fractures are taken prior to the biomechanical test. The mechanical properties of the healing fractures are analyzed by a destructive three- or four-point bending procedure. Maximum load, stiffness, energy at maximum load, deflection at maximum load, and maximum stress are determined.

Example 5 Full-Length Cloning of Endogenous Human GPR119

Polynucleotide encoding endogenous human GPR119 was cloned by PCR using the GPR119 specific primers 5′-GTCCTGCCACTTCGAGACATGG-3′ (SEQ ID NO:3; sense, ATG as initiation codon) 5′-GAAACTTCTCTGCCCTTACCGTC-3′ (SEQ ID NO:4; antisense, 3′ of stop codon) and human genomic DNA as template. TaqPlus Precision™ DNA polymerase (Stratagene) was used for amplification by the following cycle with step 2 to step 4 repeated 35 times: 94° C., 3 minutes; 94° C., 1 minute; 58° C., 1 minute; 72° C., 2 minutes; 72° C., 10 minutes. A 1.0 Kb PCR fragment of predicted size was isolated and cloned into the pCRII-TOPO™ vector (Invitrogen) and completely sequenced using the T7 DNA sequenase kit (Amersham). See, SEQ ID NO:1 for nucleic acid sequence and SEQ ID NO:2 for the deduced amino acid sequence.

Example 6 Receptor Expression

Although a variety of cells are available to the art for the expression of G protein-coupled receptors, it is most preferred that eukaryotic cells be utilized. In certain embodiments, mammalian cells or melanophores are utilized. The following are illustrative; those of ordinary skill in the art are credited with the ability to determine those techniques that are preferentially beneficial for the needs of the artisan. See, e.g., Example 9, infra, as it relates to melanophores.

a. Transient Transfection

On day one, 6×10⁶/10 cm dish of 293 cells are plated out. On day two, two reaction tubes are prepared (the proportions to follow for each tube are per plate): tube A is prepared by mixing 4 μg DNA (e.g., pCMV vector; pCMV vector with receptor cDNA, etc.) in 0.5 ml serum free DMEM (Gibco BRL); tube B is prepared by mixing 24 μl lipofectamine (Gibco BRL) in 0.5 ml serum free DMEM. Tubes A and B are admixed by inversions (several times), followed by incubation at room temperature for 30-45 min. The admixture is referred to as the “transfection mixture”. Plated 293 cells are washed with 1×PBS, followed by addition of 5 ml serum free DMEM. 1 ml of the transfection mixture is added to the cells, followed by incubation for 4 hrs at 37° C./5% CO₂. The transfection mixture is removed by aspiration, followed by the addition of 10 ml of DMEM/10% Fetal Bovine Serum. Cells are incubated at 37° C./5% CO₂. After 48 hr incubation, cells are harvested and utilized for analysis.

b. Stable Cell Lines

Approximately 12×10⁶ 293 cells are plated on a 15 cm tissue culture plate. Grown in DME High Glucose Medium containing ten percent fetal bovine serum and one percent sodium pyruvate, L-glutamine, and antibiotics. Twenty-four hours following plating of 293 cells (or to ±80% confluency), the cells are transfected using 12 μg of DNA (e.g., pCMV-neo^(r) vector with receptor cDNA). The 12 μg of DNA is combined with 60 μl of lipofectamine and 2 ml of DME High Glucose Medium without serum. The medium is aspirated from the plates and the cells are washed once with medium without serum. The DNA, lipofectamine, and medium mixture are added to the plate along with 10 ml of medium without serum. Following incubation at 37° C. for four to five hours, the medium is aspirated and 25 ml of medium containing serum is added. Twenty-four hours following transfection, the medium is aspirated again, and fresh medium with serum is added. Forty-eight hours following transfection, the medium is aspirated and medium with serum is added containing geneticin (G418 drug) at a final concentration of approximately 12×10⁶ 293 cells are plated on a 15 cm tissue culture plate. Grown in DME High Glucose Medium containing ten percent fetal bovine serum and one percent sodium pyruvate, L-glutamine, and antibiotics. Twenty-four hours following plating of 293 cells (or to ˜80% confluency), the cells are transfected using 12 μg of DNA (e.g., pCMV vector with receptor cDNA). The 12 μg of DNA is combined with 60 μl of lipofectamine and 2 ml of DME High Glucose Medium without serum. The medium is aspirated from the plates and the cells are washed once with medium without serum. The DNA, lipofectamine, and medium mixture are added to the plate along with 10 ml of medium without serum. Following incubation at 37° C. for four to five hours, the medium is aspirated and 25 ml of medium containing serum is added. Twenty-four hours following transfection, the medium is aspirated again, and fresh medium with serum is added. Forty-eight hours following transfection, the medium is aspirated and medium with serum is added containing geneticin (G418 drug) at a final concentration of 500 μg/ml. The transfected cells now undergo selection for positively transfected cells containing the G418 resistance gene. The medium is replaced every four to five days as selection occurs. During selection, cells are grown to create stable pools, or split for stable clonal selection.

Example 7 Assays for Screening Candidate Compounds as, e.g., GPR119 Agonists

A variety of approaches are available for screening candidate compounds as, e.g., GPR119 agonists. The following are illustrative; those of ordinary skill in the art are credited with the ability to determine those techniques that are preferentially beneficial for the needs of the artisan. Assays for screening compounds as agonists of a G protein-coupled receptor are well known to the skilled artisan (see, e.g., international Application WO 02/42461).

1. Membrane Binding Assays: [³⁵S]GTPγS Assay

When a G protein-coupled receptor is in its active state, either as a result of ligand binding or constitutive activation, the receptor couples to a G protein and stimulates the release of GDP and subsequent binding of GTP to the G protein. The alpha subunit of the G protein-receptor complex acts as a GTPase and slowly hydrolyzes the GTP to GDP, at which point the receptor normally is deactivated. Activated receptors continue to exchange GDP for GTP. The non-hydrolyzable GTP analog, [³⁵S]GTPγS, can be utilized to demonstrate enhanced binding of [³⁵S]GTPγS to membranes expressing activated receptors. The advantage of using [³⁵S]GTPγS binding to measure activation is that: (a) it is generically applicable to all G protein-coupled receptors; (b) it is proximal at the membrane surface making it less likely to pick-up molecules which affect the intracellular cascade.

The assay utilizes the ability of G protein coupled receptors to stimulate [³⁵S]GTPγS binding to membranes expressing the relevant receptors. The assay is generic and has application to drug discovery at all G protein-coupled receptors.

Membrane Preparation

In some embodiments, membranes comprising a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention and for use in the identification of candidate compounds as, e.g., agonists of the receptor, are preferably prepared as follows:

a. Materials

“Membrane Scrape Buffer” is comprised of 20 mM HEPES and 10 mM EDTA, pH 7.4; “Membrane Wash Buffer” is comprised of 20 mM HEPES and 0.1 mM EDTA, pH 7.4; “Binding Buffer” is comprised of 20 mM HEPES, 100 mM NaCl, and 10 mM MgCl₂, pH 7.4.

b. Procedure

All materials will be kept on ice throughout the procedure. Firstly, the media will be aspirated from a confluent monolayer of cells, followed by rinse with 10 ml cold PBS, followed by aspiration. Thereafter, 5 ml of Membrane Scrape Buffer will be added to scrape cells; this will be followed by transfer of cellular extract into 50 ml centrifuge tubes (centrifuged at 20,000 rpm for 17 minutes at 4° C.). Thereafter, the supernatant will be aspirated and the pellet will be resuspended in 30 ml Membrane Wash Buffer followed by centrifuge at 20,000 rpm for 17 minutes at 4° C. The supernatant will then be aspirated and the pellet resuspended in Binding Buffer. This wilt then be homogenized using a Brinkman Polytron™ homogenizer (15-20 second bursts until the all material is in suspension). This is referred to herein as “Membrane Protein”.

Bradford Protein Assay

Following the homogenization, protein concentration of the membranes will be determined using the Bradford Protein Assay (protein can be diluted to about 1.5 mg/ml, aliquoted and frozen (−80° C.) for later use; when frozen, protocol for use will be as follows: on the day of the assay, frozen Membrane Protein is thawed at room temperature, followed by vortex and then homogenized with a Polytron at about 12×1,000 rpm for about 5-10 seconds; it is noted that for multiple preparations, the homogenizer should be thoroughly cleaned between homogenization of different preparations).

a. Materials

Binding Buffer (as per above); Bradford Dye Reagent; Bradford Protein Standard will be utilized, following manufacturer instructions (Biorad, cat. no. 500-0006).

b. Procedure

Duplicate tubes will be prepared, one including the membrane, and one as a control “blank”. Each contained 800 μl Binding Buffer. Thereafter, 10 μl of Bradford Protein Standard (1 mg/ml) will be added to each tube, and 10 μl of membrane Protein will then be added to just one tube (not the blank). Thereafter, 200 μl of Bradford Dye Reagent will be added to each tube, followed by vortex of each. After five (5) minutes, the tubes will be re-vortexed and the material therein will be transferred to cuvettes. The cuvettes will then be read using a CECIL 3041 spectrophotometer, at wavelength 595.

Identification Assay

a. Materials

GDP Buffer consists of 37.5 ml Binding Buffer and 2 mg GDP (Sigma, cat. no. G-7127), followed by a series of dilutions in Binding Buffer to obtain 0.2 μM GDP (final concentration of GDP in each well was 0.1 μM GDP); each well comprising a candidate compound, has a final volume of 200 μl consisting of 100 μl GDP Buffer (final concentration, 0.1 μM GDP), 50 μl Membrane Protein in Binding Buffer, and 50 μl [³⁵S]GTPγS (0.6 nM) in Binding Buffer (2.5 μl [³⁵S]GTPγS per 10 ml Binding Buffer).

b. Procedure

Candidate compounds will be preferably screened using a 96-well plate format (these can be frozen at −80° C.). Membrane Protein (or membranes with expression vector excluding the Target GPCR, as control), will be homogenized briefly until in suspension. Protein concentration will then be determined using the Bradford Protein Assay set forth above. Membrane Protein (and control) will then be diluted to 0.25 mg/ml in Binding Buffer (final assay concentration, 12.5 μg/well). Thereafter, 100 μl GDP Buffer was added to each well of a Wallac Scintistrip™ (Wallac). A 5 ul pin-tool will then be used to transfer 5 μl of a candidate compound into such well (i.e., 5 μl in total assay volume of 200 μl is a 1:40 ratio such that the final screening concentration of the candidate compound is 10 μM). Again, to avoid contamination, after each transfer step the pin tool should be rinsed in three reservoirs comprising water (1×), ethanol (1×) and water (2×)—excess liquid should be shaken from the tool after each rinse and dried with paper and kimwipes. Thereafter, 50 μl of Membrane Protein will be added to each well (a control well comprising membranes without the Target GPCR was also utilized), and pre-incubated for 5-10 minutes at room temperature. Thereafter, 50 μl of [³⁵S]GTPγS (0.6 nM) in Binding Buffer will be added to each well, followed by incubation on a shaker for 60 minutes at room temperature (again, in this example, plates were covered with foil). The assay will then be stopped by spinning of the plates at 4000 RPM for 15 minutes at 22° C. The plates will then be aspirated with an 8 channel manifold and sealed with plate covers. The plates will then be read on a Wallac 1450 using setting “Prot. #37” (as per manufacturer's instructions).

2. Adenylyl Cyclase Assay

A Flash Plate™ Adenylyl Cyclase kit (New England Nuclear; Cat. No. SMP004A) designed for cell-based assays can be modified for use with crude plasma membranes. The Flash Plate wells can contain a scintillant coating which also contains a specific antibody recognizing cAMP. The cAMP generated in the wells can be quantitated by a direct competition for binding of radioactive cAMP tracer to the cAMP antibody. The following serves as a brief protocol for the measurement of changes in cAMP levels in cells that express the receptors.

In certain embodiments, a modified Flash Plate™ Adenylyl Cyclase kit (New England Nuclear; Cat. No. SMP004A) is utilized for identification of candidate compounds as, e.g., GPR119 agonists in accordance with the following protocol.

Cells transfected with a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention are harvested approximately three days after transfection. Membranes are prepared by homogenization of suspended cells in buffer containing 20 mM HEPES, pH 7.4 and 10 mM MgCl₂. Homogenization is performed on ice using a Brinkman Polytron™ for approximately 10 seconds. The resulting homogenate is centrifuged at 49,000×g for 15 minutes at 4° C. The resulting pellet is then resuspended in buffer containing 20 mM HEPES, pH 7.4 and 0.1 mM EDTA, homogenized for 10 seconds, followed by centrifugation at 49,000×g for 15 minutes at 4° C. The resulting pellet is then stored at −80° C. until utilized. On the day of direct identification screening, the membrane pellet is slowly thawed at room temperature, resuspended in buffer containing 20 mM HEPES, pH 7.4 and 10 mM MgCl₂, to yield a final protein concentration of 0.60 mg/ml (the resuspended membranes are placed on ice until use).

cAMP standards and Detection Buffer (comprising 2 μCi of tracer ([¹²⁵I]cAMP (100 μl) to 11 ml Detection Buffer)) are prepared and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Assay Buffer was prepared fresh for screening and contained 20 mM HEPES, pH 7.4, 10 mM MgCl₂, 20 mM phosphocreatine (Sigma), 0.1 units/ml creatine phosphokinase (Sigma), 50 μM GTP (Sigma), and 0.2 mM ATP (Sigma); Assay Buffer was then stored on ice until utilized.

Candidate compounds are added, preferably, to e.g. 96-well plate wells (3 μl/well; 12 μM final assay concentration), together with 40 μl Membrane Protein (30 μg/well) and 50 μl of Assay Buffer. This admixture was then incubated for 30 minutes at room temperature, with gentle shaking.

Following the incubation, 100 μl of Detection Buffer is added to each well, followed by incubation for 2-24 hours. Plates are then counted in a Wallac MicroBeta™ plate reader using “Prot. #31” (as per manufacturer's instructions).

3. CRE-Luc Reporter Assay

293 and 293T cells are plated-out on 96 well plates at a density of 2×10⁴ cells per well and were transfected using Lipofectamine Reagent (BRL) the following day according to manufacturer instructions. A DNA/lipid mixture is prepared for each 6-well transfection as follows: 260 ng of plasmid DNA in 100 μl of DMEM is gently mixed with 2 μl of lipid in 100 μl of DMEM (the 260 ng of plasmid DNA consists of 200 ng of a 8×CRE-Luc reporter plasmid, 50 ng of pCMV comprising a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention or pCMV alone, and 10 ng of a GPRS expression plasmid (GPRS in pcDNA3 (Invitrogen)). The 8XCRE-Luc reporter plasmid was prepared as follows: vector SRIF-β-gal was obtained by cloning the rat somatostatin promoter (−71/+51) at BgIV-HindIII site in the pβgal-Basic Vector (Clontech). Eight (8) copies of cAMP response element were obtained by PCR from an adenovirus template AdpCF126CCRE8 [see, Suzuki et al., Hum Gene Ther (1996) 7:1883-1893; the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety) and cloned into the SRIF-β-gal vector at the Kpn-BgIV site, resulting in the 8×CRE-β-gal reporter vector. The 8×CRE-Luc reporter plasmid was generated by replacing the beta-galactosidase gene in the 8×CRE-β-gal reporter vector with the luciferase gene obtained from the pGL3-basic vector (Promega) at the HindIII-BamHI site. Following 30 min. incubation at room temperature, the DNA/lipid mixture is diluted with 400 μl of DMEM and 100 μl of the diluted mixture is added to each well. 100 μl of DMEM with 10% FCS are added to each well after a 4 hr incubation in a cell culture incubator. The following day the transfected cells are changed with 200 μl/well of DMEM with 10% FCS. Eight (8) hours later, the wells are changed to 100 μl/well of DMEM without phenol red, after one wash with PBS. Luciferase activity is measured the next day using the LucLite™ reporter gene assay kit (Packard) following manufacturer instructions and read on a 1450 MicroBeta™ scintillation and luminescence counter (Wallac).

Example 8 Whole Cell Adenylyl Cyclase Assay for, e.g., GPR119 Agonist Activity

Cyclic AMP measurements are done with a Flash Plate™ Adenylyl Cyclase kit (New England Nuclear) according to the supplier's protocol. HEK293 cells are plated in 15-cm tissue culture dish at 12×10⁶ cells per dish in regular growth medium (DMEM/10% FBS). On the next day, 10 μg of either empty vector DNA or expression plasmid DNA are transfected into cells with lipofectamine (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) according to manufacturer's protocol. After 24 hours in culture, transfected cells are harvested in GIBCO cell dissociation buffer (Cat #13151-014), pelleted by centrifugation for 5 minutes at 1,100 rpm, and carefully re-suspended into an appropriate volume of Assay Buffer (50% 1×PBS and 50% Stimulation Buffer) to give a final cell count at 2×10⁶ cells/ml. Test compounds are prepared in 50 μl Assay Buffer at desired assay concentration where indicated, and pipetted into wells of the 96-well Flash Plate. The cell suspension prepared above was then added (50 μl per well). After an incubation time of 60 minutes at room temperature, 100 μl of Detection Mix containing tracer [¹²⁵I]-cAMP is then added to the wells. Plates are incubated for additional 2 hours followed by counting in a Wallac MicroBeta scintillation counter. Values of cAMP/well are extrapolated from a standard cAMP curve which is included on each assay plate.

An increase in cAMP level in GPR119-transfected HEK293 cells over that in HEK293 cells transfected with empty vector is indicative of a test compound being a compound that stimulates GPR119 receptor functionality.

Example 9 Melanophore Assay for, e.g., GPR119 Agonist Activity

Melanophores are maintained in culture as reported by Potenza et al [Pigment Cell Research (1992) 5:372-378] and transfected with an expression vector encoding a GPR119 receptor (GPR119; e.g., human GPR119, GenBank® Accession No. AAP72125 and alleles thereof) using electroporation. Following electroporation, the transfected cells are plated into 96 well plates for the assay. The cells are then allowed to grow for 48 hours in order to both recover from the electroporation procedure and attain maximal receptor expression levels.

On the assay day, the growth medium on the cells is replaced with serum-free buffer containing 10 nM melatonin. The melatonin acts via an endogenous Gi-coupled GPCR in the melanophores to lower intracellular cAMP levels. In response to lowered cAMP levels, the melanophores translocate their pigment to the center of the cell. The net effect of this is a significant decrease in the absorbance reading of the cell monolayer in the well, measured at 600-650 nM.

After a 1-hour incubation in melatonin, the cells become completely pigment-aggregated. At this point a baseline absorbance reading is collected. Serial dilutions of test compounds are then added to the plate, and compounds having GPR119 agonist activity produce increases in intracellular cAMP levels. In response to these increased cAMP levels, the melanophores translocate their pigment back into the cell periphery. After one hour, stimulated cells are fully pigment-dispersed. The cell monolayer in the dispersed state absorbs much more light in the 600-650 nm range. The measured increase in absorbance compared to the baseline reading allows one to quantitate the degree of receptor stimulation and plot a dose-response curve.

Materials and methods relating to melanophore assay are found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,462,856 and 6,051,386, the disclosure of each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

An increase in pigment dispersion in GPR119-transfected melanophores over over that in melanophores transfected with empty vector is indicative of a test compound being a compound that stimulates GPR119 receptor functionality.

Other assays for identifying a compound as a GPR119 agonist will be readily apparent to the skilled artisan (see, e.g., Example 7, supra).

Example 10 Yeast Reporter Assay for, e.g., GPR119 Agonist Activity

The yeast cell-based reporter assays have previously been described in the literature (e.g., see Miret et al, J Biol Chem (2002) 277:6881-6887; Campbell et al, Bioorg Med Chem Lett (1999) 9:2413-2418; King et al, Science (1990) 250:121-123; WO 99/14344; WO 00/12704; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,100,042). Briefly, yeast cells have been engineered such that the endogenous yeast G-alpha (GPA1) has been deleted and replaced with G-protein chimeras constructed using multiple techniques. Additionally, the endogenous yeast alpha-cell GPCR, Step 3 has been deleted to allow for a homologous expression of a mammalian GPCR of choice. In the yeast, elements of the pheromone signaling transduction pathway, which are conserved in eukaryotic cells (for example, the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway), drive the expression of Fus1. By placing β-galactosidase (LacZ) under the control of the Fus1 promoter (Fus1p), a system has been developed whereby receptor activation leads to an enzymatic readout.

Yeast cells are transformed by an adaptation of the lithium acetate method described by Agatep et al (Agatep et al, 1998, Transformation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae by the lithium acetate/single-stranded carrier DNA/polyethylene glycol (LiAc/ss-DNA/PEG) protocol. Technical Tips Online, Trends Journals, Elsevier). Briefly, yeast cells are grown overnight on yeast tryptone plates (YT). Carrier single-stranded DNA (10 μg), 2 μg of each of two Fus1p-LacZ reporter plasmids (one with URA selection marker and one with TRP), 2 μg of GPR119 (e.g., human receptor) in yeast expression vector (2 μg origin of replication) and a lithium acetate/polyethylene glycol/TE buffer is pipetted into an Eppendorf tube. The yeast expression plasmid containing the receptor/no receptor control has a LEU marker. Yeast cells are inoculated into this mixture and the reaction proceeds at 30° C. for 60 min. The yeast cells are then heat-shocked at 42° C. for 15 min. The cells are then washed and spread on selection plates. The selection plates are synthetic defined yeast media minus LEU, URA and TRP (SD-LUT). After incubating at 30° C. for 2-3 days, colonies that grow on the selection plates are then tested in the LacZ assay.

In order to perform fluorimetric enzyme assays for β-galactosidase, yeast cells carrying the subject GPR119 receptor are grown overnight in liquid SD-LUT medium to an unsaturated concentration (i.e. the cells are still dividing and have not yet reached stationary phase). They are diluted in fresh medium to an optimal assay concentration and 90 μl of yeast cells are added to 96-well black polystyrene plates (Costar). Test compounds, dissolved in DMSO and diluted in a 10% DMSO solution to 10× concentration, are added to the plates and the plates placed at 30° C. for 4 h. After 4 h, the substrate for the β-galactosidase is added to each well. In these experiments, Fluorescein di (β-D-galactopyranoside) is used (FDG), a substrate for the enzyme that releases fluorescein, allowing a fluorimetric read-out. 20 μl per well of 500 μM FDG/2.5% Triton X100 is added (the detergent is necessary to render the cells permeable). After incubation of the cells with the substrate for 60 min, 20 μl per well of 1 M sodium carbonate is added to terminate the reaction and enhance the fluorescent signal. The plates are then read in a fluorimeter at 485/535 nm.

An increase in fluorescent signal in GPR119-transformed yeast cells over that in yeast cells transformed with empty vector is indicative of a test compound being a compound that stimulates GPR119 receptor functionality (e.g., a compound that is an agonist or partial agonist of GPR119). In certain embodiments, compounds of the invention give an increase in fluorescent signal above that of the background signal (the signal obtained in the presence of vehicle alone).

Example 11 Radiolabeled Compound

In certain embodiments, a compound known to be a ligand of a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention is radiolabeled. A radiolabeled compound as described herein can be used in a screening assay to identify/evaluate compounds. In general terms, a newly synthesized or identified compound (i.e., test compound) can be evaluated for its ability to reduce binding of the radiolabeled known ligand to the receptor, by its ability to reduce formation of the complex between the radiolabeled known ligand and the receptor. Suitable radionuclides that may be incorporated in compounds of the present invention include but are not limited to ³H (also written as T), ¹¹C, ¹⁴C, ¹⁸F, ¹²⁵I, ⁸²Br, ¹²³I, ¹²⁴I, ¹²⁵I, ¹³¹I, ⁷⁵Br, ⁷⁶Br, ¹⁵O, ¹³N, ³⁵S and ⁷⁷Br. Compounds that incorporate ³H, ¹⁴C, ¹²⁵I, ¹³¹I, ³⁵S or ⁸²Br will generally be most useful.

It is understood that a “radiolabelled” compound” is a compound that has incorporated at least one radionuclide. In some embodiments, the radionuclide is selected from the group consisting of ³H, ¹⁴C, ¹²⁵I, ³⁵S and ⁸²Br. In some embodiments, the radionuclide ³H or ¹⁴C. Moreover, it should be understood that all of the atoms represented in the compounds known to be ligands of a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention can be either the most commonly occurring isotope of such atoms or the more scarce radioisotope or nonradioactive isotope.

Synthetic methods for incorporating radioisotopes into organic compounds including those applicable to those compounds known to be ligands of a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention are well known in the art and include incorporating activity levels of tritium into target molecules include: A. Catalytic Reduction with Tritium Gas—This procedure normally yields high specific activity products and requires halogenated or unsaturated precursors. B. Reduction with Sodium Borohydride [³H]—This procedure is rather inexpensive and requires precursors containing reducible functional groups such as aldehydes, ketones, lactones, esters, and the like. C. Reduction with Lithium Aluminum Hydride [³H]—This procedure offers products at almost theoretical specific activities. It also requires precursors containing reducible functional groups such as aldehydes, ketones, lactones, esters, and the like. D. Tritium Gas Exposure Labeling—This procedure involves exposing precursors containing exchangeable protons to tritium gas in the presence of a suitable catalyst. E. N-Methylation using Methyl Iodide [³H]—This procedure is usually employed to prepare O-methyl or N-methyl (3H) products by treating appropriate precursors with high specific activity methyl iodide (3H). This method in general allows for high specific activity, such as about 80-87 Ci/mmol.

Synthetic methods for incorporating activity levels of ¹²⁵I into target molecules include: A. Sandmeyer and like reactions—This procedure transforms an aryl or heteroaryl amine into a diazonium salt, such as a tetrafluoroborate salt, and subsequently to ¹²⁵I labelled compound using Na¹²⁵I. A represented procedure was reported by Zhu, D.-G. and co-workers in J. Org. Chem. 2002, 67, 943-948. B. Ortho ¹²⁵Iodination of phenols—This procedure allows for the incorporation of ¹²⁵I at the ortho position of a phenol as reported by Collier, T. L. and co-workers in J. Labelled Compd Radiopharm. 1999, 42, S264-S266. C. Aryl and heteroaryl bromide exchange with ¹²⁵I—This method is generally a two step process. The first step is the conversion of the aryl or heteroaryl bromide to the corresponding tri-alkyltin intermediate using for example, a Pd catalyzed reaction (i.e. Pd(Ph₃P)₄] or through an aryl or heteroaryl lithium, in the presence of a tri-alkyltinhalide or hexaalkylditin [e.g., (CH₃)₃SnSn(CH₃)₃). A represented procedure was reported by Bas, M.-D. and co-workers in J. Labelled Compd Radiopharm. 2001, 44, S280-S282.

The foregoing techniques are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Other techniques for radiolabeling a compound known to be a ligand of a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention are well known to the skilled artisan.

Example 12 Receptor Binding Assay

A test compound can be evaluated for its ability to reduce formation of the complex between a compound known to be a ligand of a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention and the receptor. In certain embodiments, the known ligand is radiolabeled. The radiolabeled known ligand can be used in a screening assay to identify/evaluate compounds. In general terms, a newly synthesized or identified compound (i.e., test compound) can be evaluated for its ability to reduce binding of the radiolabeled known ligand to the receptor, by its ability to reduce formation of the complex between the radiolabeled known ligand and the receptor.

A level of specific binding of the radiolabled known ligand in the presence of the test compound less than a level of specific binding of the radiolabeled known ligand in the absence of the test compound is indicative of less of the complex between said radiolabeled known ligand and said receptor being formed in the presence of the test compound than in the absence of the test compound.

Assay Protocol for Detecting the Complex Between a Compound Known to be a Ligand of a G Protein-Coupled Receptor of the Invention and the Receptor

A. Preparation of the Receptor

293 cells are transiently transfected with 10 ug expression vector comprising a polynucleotide encoding a G protein-coupled receptor of the invention using 60 ul Lipofectamine (per 15-cm dish). The transiently transfected cells are grown in the dish for 24 hours (75% confluency) with a media change and removed with 10 ml/dish of Hepes-EDTA buffer (20 mM Hepes+10 mM EDTA, pH 7.4). The cells are then centrifuged in a Beckman Coulter centrifuge for 20 minutes, 17,000 rpm (JA-25.50 rotor). Subsequently, the pellet is resuspended in 20 mM Hepes+1 mM EDTA, pH 7.4 and homogenized with a 50-ml Dounce homogenizer and again centrifuged. After removing the supernatant, the pellets are stored at −80° C., until used in binding assay. When used in the assay, membranes are thawed on ice for 20 minutes and then 10 mL of incubation buffer (20 mM Hepes, 1 mM MgCl₂, 100 mM NaCl, pH 7.4) added. The membranes are then vortexed to resuspend the crude membrane pellet and homogenized with a Brinkmann PT-3100 Polytron homogenizer for 15 seconds at setting 6. The concentration of membrane protein is determined using the BRL Bradford protein assay.

B. Binding Assay

For total binding, a total volume of 50 ul of appropriately diluted membranes (diluted in assay buffer containing 50 mM Tris HCl (pH 7.4), 10 mM MgCl₂, and 1 mM EDTA; 5-50 ug protein) is added to 96-well polyproylene microtiter plates followed by addition of 100 ul of assay buffer and 50 ul of a radiolabeled known ligand. For nonspecific binding, 50 ul of assay buffer is added instead of 100 ul and an additional 50 ul of 10 uM said known ligand which is not radiolabeled is added before 50 ul of said radiolabeled known ligand is added. Plates are then incubated at room temperature for 60-120 minutes. The binding reaction is terminated by filtering assay plates through a Microplate Devices GF/C Unifilter filtration plate with a Brandell 96-well plate harvestor followed by washing with cold 50 mM Tris HCl, pH 7.4 containing 0.9% NaCl. Then, the bottom of the filtration plate are sealed, 50 ul of Optiphase Supermix is added to each well, the top of the plates are sealed, and plates are counted in a Trilux MicroBeta scintillation counter. For determining whether less of the complex between said radiolabeled known ligand and said receptor is formed in the presence of a test compound, instead of adding 100 ul of assay buffer, 100 ul of appropriately diluted said test compound is added to appropriate wells followed by addition of 50 ul of said radiolabled known ligand.

C. Calculations

The test compounds are initially assayed at 10, 1 and 0.1 μm and then at a range of concentrations chosen such that the middle dose would cause about 50% inhibition of binding of the radiolabeled known ligand (i.e., IC₅₀). Specific binding in the absence of test compound (B_(O)) is the difference of total binding (B_(T)) minus non-specific binding (NSB) and similarly specific binding (in the presence of test compound) (B) is the difference of displacement binding (B_(D)) minus non-specific binding (NSB). IC₅₀ is determined from an inhibition response curve, logit-log plot of % B/B_(O) vs concentration of test compound.

K_(i) is calculated by the Cheng and Prustoff transformation: K _(i) =IC ₅₀/(1+[L]/K _(D))

where [L] is the concentration of radiolabled known ligand used in the assay and K_(D) is the dissociation constant of the radiolabeled known ligand determined independently under the same binding conditions.

Example 13 Effect OF GPR119 Agonist on GIP Secretion in Enteroendocrine Cell Line or in Cells in Tissue Derived from a K Cell Rich Region of Small Intestine

A GPR119 agonist in accordance with the present invention can be shown to stimulate GIP secretion in an enteroendocrine cell line or in cells in tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small intestine [e.g., duodenum or jejunum tissue; see, e.g., Sondhi et al, Pharmacogenetics J (2006) 6:131-140] using the in vitro assay described here. Enteroendocrine cells or cells in tissue derived from a K cell rich region of small intestine are plated in 24-well plates on day one in complete culture medium (DMEM/10% FBS). On day two the culture medium is replaced with a low glucose medium (DMEM/3 mM Glucose/10% FBS). On day three cells are washed twice with 1×PBS. The washed cells are stimulated with vehicle or with GPR119 agonist at various concentrations (e.g., in the range of 1 nM to 20 uM) or with forskolin (1 uM) as a positive control in serum free DMEM with 15 mM glucose for one hour at 37° C. and 5% CO₂ in a tissue culture incubator. The supernatants are then collected and clarified by centrifugation at 500 g and 4° C. for 5 minutes. GIP released into the supernatant is determined by ELISA using reagents purchased from LINCO Research Laboratory [Rat/Mouse Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide (Total) ELISA Catalog #EZRMGIP-55K], following instructions provided by the supplier.

While the foregoing specification teaches the principles of the present invention, with examples provided for the purpose of illustration, it will be understood that the practice of the invention encompasses all of the usual variations, adaptions, or modifications, as come within the scope of the following claims and its equivalents. 

1. A method of identifying a glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) secretagogue, comprising: (a) contacting, in vitro, a G protein-coupled receptor 119 (GPR119) agonist with a vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or with a cell capable of secreting GIP, and (b) determining whether the GPR119 agonist stimulates GIP secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the cell capable of secreting GIP; wherein the ability of the GPR119 agonist to stimulate GIP secretion from the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell or from the cell capable of secreting GIP is indicative of the agonist being a GIP secretagogue.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the GPR119 agonist is an agonist of human GPR119.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the GPR119 agonist is orally active.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the GPR119 agonist is a selective GPR119 agonist.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the GPR119 agonist has a selectivity for GPR119 over corticotrophin releasing factor-1 (CRF-1) receptor.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the enteroendocrine cell is a K cell.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the enteroendocrine cell is a cell derived from a K-cell-rich region of the small intestine.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the enteroendocrine cell is a cell derived from duodenum tissue.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the enteroendocrine cell is a cell derived from jejunum tissue.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the vertebrate enteroendocrine cell is a mammalian enteroendocrine cell.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the enteroendocrine cell is from an enteroendocrine cell line.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the cell capable of secreting GIP is a recombinant cell engineered to be capable of secreting GIP.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the cell capable of secreting GIP is a pancreatic cell.
 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the GPR119 agonist has an EC50 of less than 10 μM for elevating cAMP in GPR119-transfected cells.
 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the GPR119 agonist has an EC50 of less than 1 μM for elevating cAMP in GPR119-transfected cells.
 16. The method of claim 1, wherein the GPR119 agonist has an EC50 of less than 100 nM for elevating cAMP in GPR119-transfected cells.
 17. The method of claim 1, wherein the GPR119 agonist is orally active and has an EC50 of less than 100 nM for elevating cAMP in GPR119-transfected cells. 